Thanks to the opportunities provided by EDUC-WIDE, Dr. Olha Strilbytska – Senior Research Fellow at the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University (Ukraine) – recently conducted a scientific visit to Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic. The visit allowed her to access the Genomic Core Facility, one of Central Europe’s most advanced platforms for biomedical research.
Dr. Strilbytska’s research project, titled “Analysis of post-traumatic stress disorder gene expression profiles in mice models of neuroinflammation,” focuses on identifying genetic markers that could support more personalized approaches to diagnosing and treating PTSD – a mental health disorder of growing concern in both civilian and military populations, especially in Ukraine.
State-of-the-Art Science
The core facility at Masaryk University offered access to cutting-edge genomic technologies, including high-throughput sequencing and advanced bioinformatics tools, which were essential for implementing the experimental phase of the study. “Being able to conduct my research in such a dynamic and well-equipped scientific environment was truly inspiring,” she remarked. “Masaryk University fosters an open, interdisciplinary culture where researchers and their ideas are deeply valued.”
The visit was not only technically productive but also strategically important. Dr. Strilbytska had the opportunity to collaborate closely with Dr. Boris Tichy, Head of the Genomic Core Facility, to discuss ongoing trends in biomedical research and potential avenues for future cooperation. This dialogue also laid the groundwork for stronger institutional ties between Ukrainian and Czech universities within the EDUC Alliance.
Lasting Impact
Beyond the lab, the scientific exchange represents a broader mission of EDUC-WIDE: to foster equal access to research infrastructure, promote excellence across member institutions, and enhance scientific mobility from Widening countries. As Dr. Strilbytska highlighted in her feedback, “This opportunity significantly enriched my academic development and helped me bring my project to a new level. It also reinforced my motivation to engage in collaborative research that tackles real-world health challenges, particularly those arising from the war in Ukraine.”
The project outcomes will contribute not only to academic knowledge but potentially to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies for PTSD. The mobility grant and access to a world-class core facility have provided the foundation for meaningful progress in this direction.
Looking ahead, she encourages other young researchers to take advantage of EDUC-WIDE opportunities: “Don’t hesitate. These opportunities offer not only technical resources but also a chance to grow as a scientist, build new networks, and make meaningful contributions beyond borders. Be open, be proactive, and trust that your work has the potential to make real changes.”
This successful collaboration illustrates how shared research infrastructures within the EDUC Alliance can accelerate scientific discovery and build bridges between researchers across Europe. Supporting young researchers with access to advanced facilities is a concrete step toward a more integrated and inclusive European Research Area.