Focus on Scientists
Zuzana (Solimena Lab)
Where are you from?
I was born in Slovakia, but moved to Prague, Czech Republic when I was little.
What is your project about?
Certain viruses have long been suspected for their causal role in development of type 1 diabetes, but there is currently no explanation as to how they are involved. I am trying to figure out how these viruses could in some people make the immune system turn against the body and start destroying the cells that produce insulin. Insulin is crucial in controlling blood sugar levels and people sick with type 1 diabetes are dependent on injecting insulin several times a day. Understanding why some people get the disease and exactly how that happens will help us prevent it.
Why did you choose science as your profession?
I remember having my first biology lesson in elementary school and learning about all living organisms being composed of cells. I was so fascinated by that concept and kept thinking about it long after the lesson to try to understand it. Further down the road, I discovered more interesting abstract concepts and I realized I really want to understand as much as possible about life.
What does science mean to you?
Discovering how things work so that we can learn from this and make things better.
What motivates you?
Finding answers and solutions, not just in science, but in all things in life.
How do you balance life and science?
Sometimes it is difficult, especially when I try to understand life J When you start thinking about what the negative control for your hobby should be, it’s probably time to go on a vacation.
What was your most important shaping experience/biggest achievement?
I am an anxious person who overcomplicates and overthinks things, so any instance in the lab or in my personal life when I willingly put myself in a new unpredictable situation outside of my comfort zone and manage to accomplish something is a challenge and an achievement that I value the most.
Why science is fun?
Because science is a stream or riddles that never runs dry. It’s a game that never ends.
Any advice for future students?
Don’t get discouraged by the amount of pressure that doing a PhD or being in academia in general puts on you. Do things at your own pace, don’t panic and most importantly figure out if you enjoy the journey, because no job is worth doing if you don’t like doing it.