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ENDOTRAIN stood out to me because of its strong emphasis on collaboration and its structured international training environment.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and where you’re coming from, both academically and geographically?

I’m originally from Germany and recently moved to Switzerland to start my PhD at the University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich. My academic background is in Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, with a focus on translational research. Over time, I became particularly interested in how molecular mechanisms translate into real-world physiological effects, especially in human studies.

Moving to Switzerland for this opportunity has been a very positive experience so far. I really appreciate the international environment, the people, and the combination of high-quality research with access to nature, which creates a very inspiring place to live and work.

What motivated you to pursue a PhD, and what drew you specifically to Endotrain as a doctoral network?

I was motivated to pursue a PhD because I wanted to work at the interface between fundamental molecular biology, clinical medicine, and data-driven approaches, where research can directly contribute to improving patient care. I’m particularly interested in how dynamic biological processes can be translated into clinically meaningful signals, especially through emerging digital and physiological monitoring approaches.

ENDOTRAIN stood out to me because of its strong emphasis on collaboration and its structured international training environment. The opportunity to work within a network that brings together different disciplines, institutions, and perspectives across Europe was especially appealing, as it reflects the kind of interdisciplinary setting in which I would like to develop as a researcher.

Where will you be based during your PhD, and what are you most looking forward to about living and working there?

I will be based in Zurich, Switzerland, at the University Hospital Zurich. I’m particularly looking forward to the combination of a highly interdisciplinary research environment and the quality of life in Zurich. In addition, my secondments at ETH Zurich and Leitwert AG will allow me to experience both academic and industry settings, which I see as a valuable opportunity to broaden my perspective and develop new skills in different environments.

At this very early stage, how would you describe your PhD project in broad, non‑technical terms?

At a broad level, my project focuses on how we can better understand adrenal diseases by capturing how hormones act over time, rather than relying on single measurements. Many hormonal disorders are dynamic, and important signals can be missed when we only assess hormone levels at one point in time.

I’m interested in exploring how continuous physiological monitoring, together with emerging approaches to measure hormones more dynamically, can help uncover these patterns and improve how we diagnose and understand these conditions.

During your PhD, what specific skills, methods, or areas of expertise are you most looking forward to learning?

During my PhD, I’m especially looking forward to developing skills in data integration and analysis, particularly in combining physiological and biological data. I’m also interested in strengthening my understanding of clinical research design and how to translate complex datasets into meaningful insights.

In addition, I would like to further develop my scientific communication skills, both within the scientific community and for broader audiences, as I think this is essential for making research impactful.

What are you most looking forward to about learning and working within an international doctoral network like Endotrain?

What I find most exciting about ENDOTRAIN is the opportunity to be part of an international and interdisciplinary community. Working with researchers from different backgrounds and perspectives allows you to approach problems in new ways and learn beyond your own field.

I’m particularly looking forward to the exchange within the network, the shared training activities, and the opportunity to collaborate across institutions. I think this kind of environment is very valuable for developing both scientifically and personally.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work that helps you relax and recharge after a long day of research?

Outside of research, I enjoy staying active and spending time outdoors with my family. I like intense workouts and also being in nature, which helps me clear my mind and recharge after a long day. Being in Switzerland makes this even more enjoyable, as the landscape offers so many possibilities to get outside.

As you begin your Endotrain journey, what are you most curious or enthusiastic about right now?

At the moment, I’m particularly interested in starting a new research field at the intersection of endocrinology and digital health. I’m keen to see how the different components of the project and the network will evolve over time.

I’m also looking forward to the interactions within ENDOTRAIN and to learning from both the scientific and personal perspectives within the network.