Monika Olejnik

Tell us a bit about you – what/where have you previously studied and why did you choose to do a PhD?

I studied Biochemistry and Genetics at the University of Sheffield. I became interested in protein structural biology during my summer research project, where I was first introduced to electron microscopy. Since graduating in 2021, I worked as research technician, first at the Membrane Protein Lab (MPL) at Diamond, the UK’s national synchrotron, then at the Calabrese Lab here at Leeds. I decided to pursue a PhD because I felt ready and excited to apply my technical skills in a project which I can shape and develop.

What excites you about research?

I like diving deep into a topic, thinking of new ways to address a biological question and problem-solving. Getting to play with state-of-the-art equipment while doing so is a nice bonus and helps to keep me motivated!

What attracted you to the Cheney PhD programme?

My experience and research interests lie within the area of protein function and structure. I found it exciting that through the Cheney scheme, I could participate in the efforts to bridge the gap between high-resolution protein structures and understanding the behaviour of proteins and their complexes in their native cellular context. On a more personal note, I think Leeds is a fun place to live, and I love having the Yorkshire Dales right on my doorstep, so I cannot imagine undertaking this challenge at any other university!

What are you most looking forward to about your PhD?

I am looking forward to trying something new during my rotation projects before deciding on my research topic and really getting stuck in, and the prospect of sharing my research with the academic community at Leeds and at conferences.

Will you be using any of the university facilities to carry out your research?

I hope to access equipment and expertise of staff at the many facilities in the Faculty including Electron Microscopy, Bio-imaging and Mass Spectrometry.

I am particularly excited to get training on and use the newly arrived FIB-SEM.

What are your career aspirations and how does your PhD fit into this?

I am hoping to pursue a career in structural biology research. The University of Leeds is a great place to learn from senior scientists in the field and I know I will receive competitive training in a supportive atmosphere, which is why I chose to do my PhD here.