In the last two years I have been trained at the Medical University of Vienna in the field of Proteomics. This technique allows me and my research group to study the protein set expressed by an organism or system. In simple words, it is like taking a snapshot of the proteins expressed at that given time, retrieving information about their abundances, the way they might interact, the changes or post-translational modifications they underwent. As you might imagine, this picture can very much differ if it is shot at particular time, in regards to a particular cytotype or in response to certain stimuli. All this
together with the size and complexity of the human proteome makes proteomics a very challenging research approach.
But what I also learned in this past two years is the importance of working in a team. By sharing competencies, skills and ideas, teamwork has increased the efficiency of my project progresses and improved the quality of it. Good communication, frequent meetings, feedbacks have had a benefit not only on my research project but also increased motivation, enthusiasm and reduced work-related stress. Going to work every day in such a positive environment has been so far for me a great source of commitment and I hope, the key for successful PhD project.
Silvia Tarantino