Dynamic RNAs in a dynamic city
The Jonesy Lab at NYUâs Department of Chemistry is a multidisciplinary research group, working in the field of structural biology with a focus on dynamic ribonucleic acids (RNAs). These molecules do not behave like a rigid scaffold in the cell, but move and fold continuously in complex processes and structures. This mobility is what enables their cellular functions.
Dynamics of viral RNAs
My research is part of an interdisciplinary project that aims to decipher the complex dynamics and structure of a viral RNA from the HI virus. In the long term, the results of such studies could enable new therapeutic approaches for HIV and other viral diseases. It was particularly valuable for me to be able to compare and combine my experiments using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR spectroscopy) within the research group directly with computer-aided results on molecular dynamics. This kind of direct, interdisciplinary collaboration is particularly beneficial, as discussions about the interpretation of results happen increasingly at the junior level (postdocs and PhDs) rather than just at the top level of the working group.
Learning across borders
The FWF's Schrödinger Fellowship enables highly qualified postdocs to spend time abroad at renowned research institutions. David Klingler is working on new therapeutic approaches for HIV and other viral diseases at New York University.
Learning from each other
Anyone who transfers to a university in the USA from Europe will quickly realize that the research culture is quite different, or better said, the priorities are different: While we in Europe place particular emphasis on fundamental training, the aim in the USA is to enable students to carry out independent research projects as quickly as possible. However, this extremely early specialization also means that students sometimes lack important basics.
In Europe, we are used to planning experiments down to the smallest detail, taking all eventualities into account to minimize risks. Unsurprisingly, the approach is usually different in America, where the results are what counts and the willingness to take risks is correspondingly higher. At the same time, however, institutions have a much more error-friendly culture: Failures are considered part of the process and are not viewed negatively. As is so often the case, the truth is probably somewhere in-between and international exchange is the best way to find it.
âThe city is our campusâ
It makes sense that this is NYUâs unofficial motto â after all, the university is located in the heart of Greenwich Village. There are countless restaurants, bars, and comedy clubs in the immediate vicinity, and Washington Square Park hosts daily concerts, art events, and flash mobs. There is hardly any other place on Earth where life is as diverse as in New York. Whether it's dim sum in Flushing, karaoke in Korea Town, blinis in Brighton Beach, or rooftop parties in Williamsburg: The subway is all you need for a trip around the world. And if you are longing for nature and mountains, you can experience tranquillity hiking in the vast expanse of the Adirondacks.
