My research interests

I am a devoted microbiologist with a primary focus on extremophilic bacteria, particularly psychrophiles. My research is centred on several key areas of interest, including the quest for novel antimicrobial compounds originating from extreme environments, the exploration of the biomedical and biotechnological potential harboured by psychrophilic bacteria, and a deep fascination with the biodiversity and taxonomy of Antarctic microbiota.

Apart from antimicrobials, I am also expanding my research activities to the biotechnological potential of other bioactive psychrophilic molecules and enzymes. These cold-adapted biomolecules have evolved unique structural and functional features that allow them to remain active and stable at low temperatures. Their versatility and robust performance in low-temperature conditions open up an exciting array of opportunities in biotechnology, promising innovative solutions for diverse sectors, from agriculture to healthcare.

I am currently working as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Vienna (Austria), where I obtained a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship (H2020-MSCA-IF2021, ID:101020356). My current research revolves around the search for novel antimicrobial compounds, sourced from the highly adapted psychrophilic bacteria thriving in the harsh conditions of Antarctica. The Antarctic soil microbiome has been proven as a rich reservoir of biosynthetically active bacteria with potential to produce novel antimicrobial molecules. I am approaching this potential on multiple layers. I focus on isolation techniques leading to recovery of not-yet-cultivated microorganisms from different bacterial phyla. To unlock their biosynthetic potential, I delve deep into the genetic blueprints exploring their Biosynthetic Gene Clusters (BGCs), their novelty, variability, and adaptation patterns. As majority of novel BGCs remains silent in laboratory conditions, my further focus is on coaxing these silent BGCs into action. I employ a diverse array of cultivation methods, biotic and abiotic elicitors, genetic manipulations, and the power of microbial collaboration through co-culturing and consortia. These techniques, and their combination represent the tools through which is possible to unlock the full biosynthetic potential of these microorganisms.

One of my ongoing research activities is a comprehensive study of the biodiversity and taxonomy of psychrophilic Antarctic bacteria. These cold-adapted microorganisms represent a hardly accessible treasure of genetic diversity, and by unravelling their intricate taxonomic relationships, we gain insights into the complex dynamics of life in extreme environments. This knowledge is not only vital for advancing our understanding of Antarctic ecosystems but also contributes to the broader field of microbiology, shedding light on the evolutionary and adaptive mechanisms that enable life to thrive in the harshest corners of our planet.