How did you first hear about the exchange program?

I came across it while applying to the PhD program at the Max Delbrück Center. It was mentioned in the materials and on a dedicated website that explained what the program offered and how it worked.

Yes, although my choice was also shaped by personal reasons. I did my Masters in Dresden, and I wanted to stay close by. But what also really attracted me was the strong focus on structural biology here. The Max Delbrück Center has an impressive range of labs working on protein structure and function – including my current group, which has a great reputation.

How did you connect with your host lab in Edinburgh?

The University of Edinburgh is a newer partner in the program. I first heard about them during a symposium where several principal investigators gave talks. That’s when I learned about Nick Gilbert’s lab and their research. Their focus is more on protein biochemistry, but I saw a good opportunity for collaboration.

What did you work on during the exchange?

I investigated how cancer-relevant metabolic disturbances influence DNA topology and 3D chromatin architecture. My home laboratory in Berlin focuses on the multifaceted roles of metabolites in the human body, particularly how they impact protein structure and function using proteomics approaches. In the Gilbert lab, I applied biochemical assays to test a hypothesis derived from my proteomics data, learning and implementing a specialized chromatin assay developed in their group.

What were the challenges?

The time constraint was the biggest one. We had just two weeks, so we had to clearly define a single, achievable question and build a focused plan. We held several meetings with Gilbert to align our goals and make sure the assays would yield interpretable results. It required fast thinking and quick adjustments when something didn’t work.

How has the exchange influenced your work here?

I brought back both technical know-how and a new perspective. We plan to set up the same assay system in our lab, and thanks to my time in Edinburgh, I now know how to handle the protein under specific conditions and avoid pitfalls. It’s a direct extension of what I learned there.

What did you gain from the collaboration – beyond the experiments?

Our lab focuses more broadly on the structure of the proteome, while Nick’s lab is centered around biochemistry. That opened my eyes to a different way of thinking. Also, the exchange allowed me to work closely with people one on one, which you don’t get from conferences. You see how they operate, their routines, and how they tackle problems.

Do you think this will impact your career long-term?

Absolutely. The people you meet, the skills you pick up, and even seeing different working styles – it all helps you grow as a scientist. You also make valuable connections, which can lead to future collaborations.

How was your cultural experience in Scotland?

Wonderful! Edinburgh has an energetic, artistic vibe with lots of free museums and galleries. I got to explore the old city, visit art spaces, and even saw a city-wide kids’ science day at a museum. The people were also incredibly friendly and polite – one couple even helped me cross the street when the signal wasn’t working!

Any final thoughts?

I think programs like this deserve more visibility. It’s a great way to grow, share knowledge, and connect scientific communities. I hope more people apply and benefit from it.

Further information

The Max Delbrück Center PhD Exchange Program (formerly called MDC-NYU Exchange Program) was launched in 2009 to train the next generation of systems biologists. Ten PhD students are able to spend up to two years working and studying at the Center for Genomics and Systems Biology at New York University or at the Institute of Genetics and Cancer, a new partner in the exchange programme.

• MDC Exchange Program in Medical Systems Biology
• Nick Gilbert Research Group