Meet Urša Čerček: FEBS Junior Section members' interview series

Our interviewee is Urša Čerček, a PhD student at the Faculty of Medicine and did her research work at the Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia. Urša is a founding member of the Junior Section of the Slovenian Biochemical Society, a FEBS Constituent Society.

What motivated you to pursue a career in science? Why did you choose this field?
My journey into science began with my high school strengths in biology and chemistry, which led me to study biochemistry. At first, I didn't fully understand all that the field entailed, but I soon discovered just how fascinating and wide-ranging it could be. Early in my studies, I developed a strong interest in neurodegenerative diseases—conditions that profoundly impact patients and families and are becoming more common as populations age. This growing interest inspired me to pursue a PhD, allowing me to deepen my expertise and contribute meaningfully to understanding these complex diseases.
Briefly introduce your research topic. What is the purpose of your research?
My research focuses on understanding neurodegenerative diseases, specifically Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). These diseases show similar cellular changes, yet their symptoms vary due to the affected brain regions. We study how mutations in the C9orf72 gene impact RNA molecules and protein assembly in cells. Our work has identified that the amino acid phenylalanine is less available in affected cells, leading to reduced incorporation into proteins, which may contribute to disease progression. The goal of my research is to uncover how these molecular changes drive disease development and find potential avenues for intervention.
What excites you most about your work or research?
What excites me most about my research is the opportunity to uncover how subtle molecular changes contribute to complex neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and FTD. Every discovery, even a small one, brings us closer to understanding why certain cells are more vulnerable to these diseases. The thought that my work could eventually help in developing targeted treatments, or even prevent disease progression, is incredibly motivating. I also love the problem-solving aspect—working with advanced techniques and continuously learning to tackle intricate questions about the brain and cellular function keeps me inspired every day.
Among all the scientific discoveries of all time, which is your favorite? Why?
It's hard to pick a single favorite discovery because so many breakthroughs have reshaped our understanding of the world. From the discovery of DNA's structure to the development of antibiotics and the theory of relativity, each has had a profound impact. I think what excites me most is how these discoveries build on one another, each one opening new doors for deeper understanding and future innovation. The cumulative nature of science is inspiring, and every discovery reminds me of the potential for our work today to contribute to something transformative tomorrow.
What do you do as a scientist to make your work interesting and accessible to the public?
To make my work interesting and accessible, I focus on clear, relatable explanations that highlight how our research impacts health and daily life. I also engage in public talks, write simplified summaries, and use visuals to help illustrate complex ideas.
What do you like to do in your spare time? Do you have hobbies?
In my free time, I love spending time with friends and family, as they help me unwind and shift my focus away from work. I enjoy attending cultural and social events with them, which is always a refreshing change. I also have a few hobbies that bring me joy and relaxation. I love dancing, especially swing, and recently, I took up crocheting—a relaxing pastime suggested by a friend. I also enjoy spending time in nature and being around animals, especially our family dog, which adds a lot of warmth to my time off.
How was the idea of the Slovenian Junior Section born? Tell us the story of the initiative (for founding members) and what motivated you to become a member?
The idea for a Slovenian Junior Section came about during a FEBS conference when representatives approached us with the suggestion to create a national Junior Section. They highlighted the potential of the FEBS Junior Section to bring young scientists together across Europe, which immediately caught my interest. Seeing the opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate with other young researchers, I felt motivated to join. The idea of contributing to a network that fosters scientific growth, exchange, and support among early-career scientists was incredibly inspiring.
Kity, our junior section representative, and I decided to gauge interest by conducting a quick survey at our national congress. The response was very positive, with junior members expressing enthusiasm for the idea. We then presented the concept to our senior members, who were supportive, and with their encouragement, the national junior section was officially established. It was a collaborative effort driven by strong interest from our junior members and support from our senior colleagues.
What is the importance of getting involved in FEBS Junior Section activities for students and young scientists?
Getting involved in FEBS Junior Section activities is crucial for students and young scientists as it provides valuable networking opportunities with peers and established researchers, fosters collaborations, and enhances skills through workshops and seminars. It also encourages professional development through leadership roles and creates a supportive community where members can share experiences and challenges in their scientific journeys.
What advice would you give to aspiring students/scientists?
My advice for aspiring students and scientists is to pursue this career path only if you genuinely enjoy the work and find the subject matter fascinating. If you don’t have that passion, the demands of the field can become overwhelming, and you may quickly lose motivation. Additionally, I believe it’s essential to build strong relationships and engage in conversations with as many people as possible to learn from their experiences. This not only helps to solve various challenges but also reassures you that you’re not alone in your journey.
Where do you see your career going next?
My primary goal right now is to successfully complete my PhD, as it is a critical milestone in my career. Once I achieve that, I will actively seek out exciting opportunities that align with my research interests and professional aspirations.
Photo by Susanne Schwarz on Unsplash.
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