Dr. Salome Stierli

Using lineage tracing studies and advanced microscopy techniques such as multi-photon microscopy and correlative light electron microscopy, I am investigating links between tissue repair and tumourigenesis and how studying these processes may provide new approaches for the treatment of this disease. Moreover, I am investigating the functional role and cellular origin of pro-tumourigenic candidates at the early stage of tumourigenesis (Neurofibromatosis type I).

My PhD has focused upon (1) peripheral nerve homeostasis and regeneration. And (2), the tumour predisposition syndrome, Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Within the first study, I investigated how Schwann cells (SCs), the main glial cells of the peripheral nerve, replenish themselves and whether mature SCs perform a stem-like function. Within the second study, I developed an injury-induced mouse-model for NF1-associated neurofibromatosis in order to study the early stages of the disease.

3 month rotations as part of CR-UK PhD programme at UCL to choose a PhD topic in the research groups of: Dr. Alexander Hergovich (Tumour supressor Signaling Networks) Prof. Paolo Salomoni (Nuclear function and metabolism in cancer pathogenesis Prof. Alison C. Lloyd. (Cell Biogenesis and Tissue Regeneration)

Internship in the research Group of Prof. J. Pieters. I gained first real lab experiences whilst contributing in a protein purification. In addition, I became aware of the indispensable value of in-vivo animal models for a range of diseases.

My duties involved the organisation of various archives. This work demanded a broad knowledge in order to sort out the research projects into different archive categories. Whilst my time there, I have learned about the organisation and work atmosphere of a chemistry concern.

Internship in the research Group of Prof. A. Engel. Prior to starting my bachelor degree, I gained valuable insight into the daily life in a professional research group and the deep passion and determination for working in one.

Thesis project: The regulation of peripheral nerve homeostasis, regeneration and tumourigenesis. PhD Supervisor: Prof. Alison Lloyd

3 month rotations as part of CR-UK PhD programme at UCL to choose a PhD topic in the research groups of: Dr. Alexander Hergovich, Prof. Paolo Salomoni and Prof. Alison C. Lloyd.

The master thesis project was performed at the laboratory of Dr. Brian Hemmings, FRS at the Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research (FMI) in Basel. Project title: Identification of a potential role of hEphB1 receptor in Glioblastoma.