Research/Areas of Interest:

Germ cells are the only cell type that must endure extensive DNA damage in the form of programmed meiotic double-strand breaks (DSBs) during their normal development. Paradoxically, the absence of DSBs during meiosis as well as persisting unrepaired breaks are detrimental and typically result in meiotic arrest and infertility. Our research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms controlling the development of healthy gametes and how misregulation of these mechanisms can lead to reproductive disorders.We are also interested in how chemotherapy affects these checkpoints and leads to premature ovarian failure and infertility.

Education

  • PhD, Georg-August-Universität, Germany, 2004
  • MSc, Jagiellonian University, Poland, 2000