I studied at Masaryk University in Brno (molecular biology and genetics) and received my PhD from the same university (molecular and cell biology). My scientific career can be divided into three interrelated areas. As a PhD student under the supervision of Prof. Jiří Doškař, I studied the proteome structure of polyvalent staphylococcal bacteriophages, which could be used for phage therapy as an alternative to antibiotic treatment of severe bacterial infections. Later, I worked as a post-doctoral fellow at the Veterinary Research Institute in the research team of Dr. Milan Fránek. My research was focused on the design, development, optimization, and validation of antibody-based immunoanalytical assays (ELISAs) for quantitative determination of small molecules (contaminants, pollutants, and/or biomarkers) in environmental and food/feed samples. This part of my career was important for me because I got exposed to organic chemistry and started to love chemistry a lot. Since 2014 I have been working in the team of Prof. Daniel Růžek and my work is mainly focused on antiviral research, searching for new antiviral compounds/active agents, studying structure-activity relationships, explaining mechanisms of action of antiviral drugs and evaluating their antiviral activity in vitro and in animal models. In recent years I have also worked at several foreign workplaces (USA, Japan, Belgium, France). I am also a lecturer at several Czech universities and consider my teaching activities to be as important a part of my scientific career as research. In addition to biology (virology), I am interested in chemistry and physics, as there is no deep explanation of a biological process without a chemical and physical background. I am also very interested in art, especially drawing and painting, and feel a close connection between science, art and philosophy.

I finished high school in my hometown Podbořany at the northwest of Bohemia. The first chapter of my scientific life is connected with České Budějovice where I started to study at the University of South Bohemia (Faculty of Sciences). I chose parasitology as a field of my master's and doctoral studies. At that time, I also worked in the Laboratory of Parasite Immunology at the Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS). The leader of the laboratory was Jan Kopecký - an excellent mentor for the start of my scientific career. My research in that lab was focused mainly on the study of the immune response against microsporidians of the genus Encephalitozoon, which act as opportunistic pathogens in humans with immunodeficiency. Later on, I was engaged in the research topic “How ticks modulate the immune response of the host during infestation”. My research project was focused especially on tick saliva cystatins. During this period, I also spent two months at the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (Oxford, UK) for training in recombinant protein production in the baculovirus expression system. I also collaborated with Daniel Růžek on studies of the immunopathology of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) during these years. The second chapter of my scientific work is connected with Brno – metropolis of Moravia, where I started to work at the Veterinary Research Institute at the Department of Virology. My research area at this institution was focused firstly on the investigation of host-pathogen interactions of selected pig viruses (e.g. porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, porcine cytomegalovirus, African swine fever virus). Later on, I joined the group of Daniel Růžek - Emerging Viral Diseases. The mission of the laboratory is research in the area of epidemiology and pathogenesis of significant viral zoonoses, especially TBE. My projects in the team were focused mainly on the epidemiology studies of TBE presence in domestic animals (goats, sheep and dogs) and on TBE veterinary vaccine development. I was also involved in research connected with TBE therapy development (antivirals and therapeutic monoclonal antibodies) and immune response description. We also look for possible pathogens in nature (e.g. Brno virus) as a part of a collaborative project with the Institute of Vertebrate Biology, CAS. Nowadays, I am the head of the Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases at the Veterinary Research Institute, which continues the commenced studies. I also teach university students: the lecture “Parasite Immunology” at Masaryk University in Brno (Faculty of Science), and the practice lesson “Immunology” at Veterinary University in Brno. Besides science, I used to travel a lot to see and feel the world.

During my studies I became absolutely thrilled about the world of virology. My passion is unravelling the intricate mysteries of viruses – those tiny yet incredibly influential entities that shape the course of life. I believe that by understanding viruses, we can gain deep insights into the fundamentals of biology. If we want to stop the negative effects of viral infections, we should first understand disease development. So, after finishing my studies in Clinical Biology, I started my PhD in Infectious Biology within the joint School of Doctoral Studies in Biological Sciences between the Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, and the Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences. I gained experience through my work in the Laboratory of Biological Monitoring and Protection, The National Institute for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Protection, internships such as: The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick)School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh; Immunology and Infectious Disease, Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Switzerland etc. Currently, I am working as head of the Laboratory of Arbovirology, Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS. My main interest is flaviviruses and other emerging and re-emerging viral infections. Besides research, I enjoy spending time with my family and engaging in activities such as fishing, parrot breeding, and home improvement.

After completing my master's degree in microbiology at the Faculty of Science Masaryk University, I started my PhD in parasitology within the joint School of Doctoral Studies in Biological Sciences between the Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, and the Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences. During my PhD, I also worked as the head of the laboratory and research and development department of the private company Gen-Trend. Currently, I work in the Laboratory of Arbovirology, Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS. I am interested in the ecoepidemiology of zoonotic and vector-borne pathogens (tick-borne encephalitis virus, Usutu virus, hantaviruses, and other tick-, mosquito-, and rodent-borne pathogens including bacteria) and the ecology of their vectors (ticks, mosquitoes). In addition to research, I enjoy spending time with my family, ideally doing outdoor sports (trail biking, trail running, snowboarding, skiing, hiking, climbing etc.).

After graduating from Masaryk University in Brno (Faculty of Science), I worked for 15 years in Loschmidt Laboratories (MU) on protein development of haloalkane halogenase and for 7 years in RNA quality control group (CEITEC). In 2020, I entered the world of viruses in Daniel Ruzek's lab, which still fascinates me. In my free time I enjoy the mountains in summer and winter, love Stephen King‘s books and gardening.

I completed my PhD in Biology at the University of Ostrava in 2020. My PhD thesis focused on determining virulence factors and designing new bioengineering approaches using Leishmania parasites. I then moved to Switzerland, where I spent five years as a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine in the Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Disease. I worked on the discovery of human monoclonal antibodies targeting a wide range of viruses, including flaviviruses. This work led to my first connection with the Růžek lab, where I completed a three-month internship in 2024. Now, a year later, I feel fortunate to be back home and officially part of the Růžek lab, where I continue antibody-related research that I started in Switzerland. In essence, I see myself as a lifelong seeker of answers — drawn by both the depths of biology and the heights of the mountain landscape.

My passion for science started when I was quite young, and although I always had a particular interest in virology, I wanted to develop a broader skill set before I specialised. This led me to completing an integrated masters in molecular and cellular biochemistry (MBiochem) at the University of Oxford. From there, my academic journey took me to the university of Glasgows MRC - Centre for Virus Research in Scotland for my PhD. The focus of my work was tick-borne bunyaviruses, more specifically trying to understand why these viruses were only able to be transmitted by ticks (as opposed to being able to be vectored by other arthropods, such as mosquitoes). Through this research, I developed a love for all things tick-virus related, which is what has led me to Brno and the lab of Prof. Daniel Růžek, where I am exploring the mechanisms behind alimentary routes of infection. I’m very excited to research all things tick-borne encephalitis virus related, continue improving my skill set, and explore a new country as this is my first time living outside the UK. Outside of the lab, I love to do anything craft related (particularly cross stitching), spend as much time in nature and hiking as possible, and consume anything horror genre related (mainly books and films).

I graduated in Microbiology and Molecular Biotechnology from Masaryk University in Brno. My journey in the lab began with bacteriophages, which sparked my passion for virology. Over time, I became fascinated by arboviruses - mainly flaviviruses, both tick- and mosquito-borne - and the differences between them. Although I enjoy many aspects of virology (including tons of plaque assays!), my current focus is on molecular pathogenesis, virus–host interactions, and antiviral drug development. I’ve also grown passionate about bioimaging. During a research stay in Sweden, I trained in advanced imaging techniques combined with tissue clearing to study viral pathogenesis. More recently, I spent six months as a postdoctoral researcher at the National Laboratory of Virology (VNL) in Hungary, where I underwent BSL-4 training and worked on Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). This experience broadened my research interests to include not only flaviviruses but also bunyaviruses, such as Hazara virus. Outside the lab, I love hiking in the mountains, traveling the world - and I’m a devoted fan of coffee and chocolate.

I am a second-year PhD student, a molecular biologist by education and heart, fascinated by the fusion of molecular biology and virology. The world of viruses truly amazes me - it's mysterious and full of surprises. Currently, my focus in the lab revolves around viral reporter systems, where I'm untangling their secrets. When I'm not busy pipetting, you can catch me experimenting with flavors in the kitchen or embarking on hikes somewhere up high. The kitchen and lab are my creative spaces, and hiking is my way of finding new perspectives.

After graduating from Masaryk University I spent several years in the pharmaceutical industry, where I was focused on veterinary virology and vaccine production. Then I moved back to academia and started my PhD studies at the University of South Bohemia. Now I focus on tick-borne encephalitis virus and the preparation of its mutants. I am also "that guy with a toolbox" in our lab. I love good coffee, good meal, good wine and good book and it doesn´t have to be all at a time.

I guess my first spoken word being „bird“ somehow predicted my interest in biology (or maybe it was the first manifestation of it). My fondness for biology resulted in me studying molecular biology and genetics at Masaryk University. During my studies I started to work on microalgae, to be more precise I was attempting to increase the production of lipids in Schizochytrium, which is utilized in the industrial production of fish oil alternatives. After graduation, I have decided to switch from big microorganisms to small microorganisms and joined this virology lab. Besides biology, I also like Irish music and the history of the USA. And when I am not explaining how these three things have undeniable historical connections I enjoy playing some board games.

I have been fascinated by science and nature since childhood, mainly the invisible part of nature. I went to study Molecular biology and the biochemistry of organisms at Charles University in order to better understand the things around us. When I was choosing the lab, I was deciding between virology and cancer research. So I ended up in the lab of tumor virology, where my topic was the integration of the virus genome into the human chromosome and its association with tumorgenesis. Besides my research work, I try to pass on science enthusiasm to the younger generation. Now I am looking forward to learning new methods and exploring other viruses.

My life has always been guided by two fundamental passions: learning and creating. After earning a bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Masaryk University, I was fortunate to begin pursuing my first passion in Professor Růžek's lab, where I focused on novel approaches to flaviviral infection therapy, particularly through drug repurposing, which ultimately led to earning my master's degree. For my PhD, I chose to continue exploring the world of flaviviruses, now delving into the molecular, immunological, and genetic factors that contribute to severe cases of tick-borne encephalitis. Beyond science, I find joy in painting, poetry, knitting, crocheting, and beading jewelry. I am continually amazed by how these seemingly unrelated interests—science and art—often intersect and inspire each other, offering new perspectives.

After completing my medical studies at Charles University in Prague, I started working at the Infectious Diseases Department, České Budějovice Hospital. In addition to the routine clinical practice, I had the opportunity to join the ongoing research collaboration with the Biological Center of the Academy of Sciences. This collaboration led to my doctoral study under Prof. Růžek's supervision at the Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia. It includes inventing new methods for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of tick-borne encephalitis. In my free time I enjoy playing board games, organizing tea sessions, trail running and choir singing.

Hi, my name is Ondra! Since my high school years, I have been fascinated by nature,
especially by the mechanisms that drive living organisms. That's why I chose to study
at the Faculty of Science at the University of Ostrava. I completed my bachelor's
degree in Biology-Chemistry and switched to Experimental Biology for my master's
degree, during which I focused mainly on the SCGE method and the evaluation of
the genotoxicity of nanomaterials. I have always wanted to apply my experience and
knowledge in a way that helps people and contributes to medicine, so I am happy to
be studying for a PhD in a field of microbiology at Masaryk University. I do my
dissertation in the laboratory of virology under the supervision of Professor Daniel
Růžek, focusing primarily on the role of autoantibodies against chemokines and
cytokines in the severity of tick-borne encephalitis.

After studying at Palacký University in Olomouc, I returned to Brno, where I studied molecular biology and biotechnology at Mendel University. Since high school, I have been fascinated by assisted reproduction, which is why I started working as an andrologist during my studies. However, after completing my master's degree, I felt the need for a change. And I hadn't been to Masaryk University yet! This position therefore offers me a new challenge in an academic environment. My goal is to help create a functional laboratory environment and learn as much as possible from others. I like to spend my free time outdoors or at home knitting and crocheting.

During my elementary school years, I developed a strong fascination with biology and human nutrition, which naturally led me to study Food Analysis at the Secondary Industrial School of Chemistry in Brno. In high school, my interest shifted towards molecular genetics, particularly DNA, prompting me to continue my studies at Mendel University in Brno, where I specialized in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. I greatly enjoy lab work, which has been an integral part of my life since my high school internship at the Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences. There, I investigated mechanisms of immune cells activation induced by cyanobacterial LPS, using techniques such as Western blotting and ELISA. During my university studies, I focused on detecting pathogenic microorganisms in food waste using cultivation methods and MALDI- TOF mass spectrometry. For my master’s thesis, I analyzed tick-borne pathogens in Sicilian ticks Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.s., with a particular focus on Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Rickettsia spp., which involved extensive DNA extractions and nested PCR assays. I am currently working as a lab technician at the Veterinary Research Institute. Although virology is a new field for me, I find plaque assays especially fascinating. I am excited about this new chapter. Outside the lab, I enjoy traveling, jumping classes, reading and good coffee.

I graduated from Animal physiology at the Faculty of Science in Brno. For several years I worked there as a researcher. After a break from science, I returned as an administrative assistant for Prof. Růžek's group. Besides biology, I am interested in history, music and films. I like to go on long hikes, play billiards and board games.