In June 2025, Olha Strilbytska, a researcher at the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, carried out a research visit to the Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics in Freiburg, Germany, as part of the EIRENE – Max Planck–Ukraine Cooperation & Mobility Grant.
This prestigious grant supports scientific cooperation between Ukrainian and German research institutions, promoting the mobility of young scientists and the implementation of joint projects. The aim of the visit was to strengthen scientific collaboration and to conduct research in the field of molecular biology, particularly focusing on transcriptional profiling in Drosophila melanogaster at late stages of life.
During her stay at the Max Planck Institute, Olha had the opportunity to work in the laboratory of Professor Nicola Iovino, where she became familiar with advanced methods for studying transcriptional regulation, including chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), ATAC-seq, and CUT&Tag.
In addition to laboratory work, the visit also included participation in scientific seminars, internal research group discussions, and active dialogue regarding potential directions for future collaboration between the Ukrainian and German teams.
“This visit was a truly significant step in my professional development. I had the chance to work alongside leading experts in the field of epigenetics and to see firsthand how top-tier European research institutions operate. Beyond scientific exchange, this experience has deeply inspired me to contribute to the advancement of Ukrainian science and to integrate innovative techniques into our research,” — shared Olha Strilbytska.
The EIRENE project aims to support Ukrainian researchers during challenging times and to foster long-term partnerships between Ukraine and Germany in the field of science. The Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology is proud of its staff’s participation in such initiatives and wishes Olha continued professional success and exciting scientific discoveries!