Silvia pursued a Bachelor’s in General Biology at Comenius University in Bratislava, where she conducted her thesis research in the neuroscience lab led by Lubica Lacinova from the Slovak Academy of Sciences.

For her Master’s, she studied Animal Physiology and Ethology at Comenius University in Bratislava, focusing on the role of delta-opioid receptors in regulating neuronal excitability in the hippocampus. She collaborated during this time with two renowned labs: Lubica Lacionava’s lab at the Slovak Academy of Sciences and Peter Jedlicka’s lab at Justus Liebig University Giessen and Frankfurt in Germany.

Highlighted Achievements

• Initiation of an international collaboration with Peter Jedlicka’s lab in Germany during her Master’s. This immersive six-month internship facilitated the combination of data from electrophysiology experiments with computational models, uncovering intricate ion channel-dependent mechanisms. The experience provided Silvia with exposure to programming and the cutting-edge of neuroscience, complemented by visits to institutions like the MPI for Brain Research and the NeuroScience Center at Goethe University.
• Recognition as a scholarship recipient from the National Scholarship Program of the Slovak Republic, sponsored by the Ministry of Education, Science, Research, and Sport of the Slovak Republic
• Being part of Peter Jonas’ research group at ISTA
• Serving as the Student Representative for the Neuroscience track since 2021 at ISTA

Why are you doing a PhD?

For me, the driving force behind choosing science is a profound passion for understanding the world, particularly the intricate nature of the brain. There is vast space for exploration and discovery in this field, and it’s thrilling to be a part of it.

What do you like about life in Vienna/Austria?

The best thing about Vienna is its multicultural vibe and endless opportunities. If you feel like hiking, attending Opera, playing sports, you name it – everything is within reach! No wonder Vienna tops all city charts to live in.

How do you balance work and life during your PhD?

I’ve found a few attitudes that have helped me maintain balance: Listing my values and priorities and making decisions based on them. Setting clear goals and staying organized for efficiency at work. And I make sure to reserve “sacred” time for self-care and connecting with my loved ones.