Meet the team of

behind the project

As the team leader, it's my job to ensure we're on track to meet our research goals and deadlines. I also keep an eye on the project’s development, making sure we’re moving forward efficiently and keeping everyone motivated along the way. I represent our team at conferences and events, and in the wet lab, I led the development of our SynLOCK system. When I'm not designing DNA constructs, you'll probably find me dancing. It's a lot like synthetic biology: strategy, creativity and adapting on the fly!

My main role in the project is to provide bioinformatics support, primarily working with genomic data to offer phylogenetic and functional insights into the Prymnesium genome. I focus on ensuring that our work is based on high-quality data and up-to-date scientific research. I also work on our project wiki. Beyond the project, I'm involved in developing bioinformatics solutions for microbiome research. When I'm not working, I enjoy playing guitar or piano and taking care of my Nepenthes plant

Molecular biology and genetic engineering have always fascinated me, that's why I got involved in a synthetic biology project. My main task was to create and maintain a laboratory culture of Prymnesium parvum. I was also responsible for isolating its genomic DNA, which is essential for the SHERLOCK assay. Dominika and I worked together in AlgaLab, where we made sure that our algae have the best possible growing conditions (no matter how many stairs we needed to take to get to the culture room). Additionally, I supported the SHERLOCK lab whenever another PCR reaction was needed. In my free time, I dive into the excitment of volleyball, whether playing on the court or cheering from the sidelines. I play guitar as a hobby too!

My responsibilities included designing and manufacturing a 3D-printed device called PrymChip. This device is used to excite and detect green fluorescence signals from fluorescein solutions within a specially designed detection chamber. The fluorescence signal is captured using a smartphone camera, and the images are then processed through a Python script, which analyzes the photos and converts the detected fluorescence signal into the corresponding fluorescein concentration, based on a pre-established calibration curve. Besides the work, I enjoy being creative and staying active. I develop my skills in drawing, archery, climbing, and martial arts.

With a passion for multidisciplinary approaches in science, synthetic biology has been a natural fit for me. As a Biophysics major, I have focused on developing a mathematical model to describe the dynamics of the Sherlock assay's endonuclease activity. In addition, I contributed to the development of the PrymFlow Lateral Flow test in the wet lab. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing the violin and can often be found at orchestra rehearsals.

Dr Mateusz Wawro from the Department of Cell Biochemistry, FBBB, acted as our project instructor. His deep knowledge of genetic engineering was an invaluable asset, as he provided us with guidance throughout the design, engineering, assembly, and testing of different biological parts.

Prof. Andrzej Górecki, from the Department of Physical Biochemistry, FBBB, served as the Faculty Associate Dean during the project. As our project advisor, he provided key guidance throughout the protein purification process and was instrumental in helping us get the project off the ground.

Dr Małgorzata Figiel, from the Department of Physical Biochemistry, FBBB, supported us in developing a protocol for protein expression and purification. Her guidance allowed us to develop a method that ensures the cost-effective, efficient, and timely production and purification of the Cas13 proteins.