What drove me to choose this lab?
The research subjects, the great atmosphere with other student and researchers in the lab and in the department, that we use many different scientific techniques.
My research project is the crosstalk between myeloid derived suppressor cells and intestinal microbiota during colitis associated cancer development.
A funny thing in our lab The discussions between us lab members and our PI. They are always funny, exciting and enthusiastic.
A first impression I had when I arrived was “Wow! this is so interesting, cool and fun!”.
A memorable event we had as a lab when we conduct large experiment we all work together like in an assembly line.
In five years I will be…
Working in medical research.
What drove me to choose this lab?
I was familiar with Michal through a course I took in my bachelor’s degree and a friend that was a former student of hers. I was also interested in working with her after reading the work done by her team.
My research project
My work is about regulation pathways controlling a process of immune suppression mediated by cells called MDSCs.
A funny thing in our lab
Maybe it’s not that unique, but you can’t have an open chocolate box for more than a day. This also applies for a pack of chewing gum or any other chewables available.
A first impression I had when I arrived
I remember that the first impression I had was that everything is very well communicated in the lab. The working environment mediated by Michal is very open and pleasant.
A memorable event we had as a lab
The annual Hanukkah gathering at Michal’s home is a social event where current and former students of Michal through the years come. There is always great atmosphere.. and food.
In five years I will be…
I believe I’ll be in the field of Biology and Immunology. Open to anything.
What drove me to choose this lab?
When I first met Michal in the immunology course, she introduced her lab projects as part of the last chapter of her lectures and I found it very interesting. Also, I enjoyed her way of teaching and enthusiasm towards immunology and research. The lab focuses on questions in immunology which I find important, using modern research technologies that I wanted to master.
My research project
I study how certain bacteria and bacterial metabolites can alter the immunosuppression features of MDSCs in the context of inflammatory diseases. Because MDSCs can alter anti-tumor activity and impair T cell function, the ability to control MDSCs’ suppression is very appealing.
A funny thing in our lab is Leonor😊. She has infectious laughter and her ability to turn every frustrating situation or failed experiment into a lesson in a cheerful way is absolutely admirable.
A first impression I had when I arrived
When I was first introduced by Michal to the other students in the lab, I was at the 3rd year of bachelor’s degree. At this time, I had no experience in working at a research lab and I was intrigued by the field of research. I was surprised by how kind and thoughtful Michal and the students in the lab were, considering I had no experience. This had left me with a very positive first impression of the lab that made me want to be part of it.
A memorable event we had as a lab
Every lab gathering is a great time, and especially Hanukkah gatherings, since we are very united as a group. Every Hanukkah we meet at Michal’s house to celebrate the holiday, talking, eating, and having a lot of fun.
In five years I will be…Involved in the immunology research field, using the skills I acquired in the time I worked in the lab and trying to push the immunological knowledge further.
What drove me to choose this lab?
I joined Prof. Baniyash’s lab in my Bachelors. I felt like the culture here focuses on healthy balance and hard work, creating a family dynamic that really inspires energies. I remember thinking at that time that this lab must be a good one to be in.
My research project
Improving T cell mediated immunotherapy, and understand the effect of myeloid-derived suppressor cells on T cells within the tumor microenvironment.
A funny thing in our lab
Did you know that dolphins sleep unihemispherically? Us too! :)
A first impression I had when I arrived
What cool, smart & lovely people I surrounded myself by. I love my life!
A memorable event at the lab
I still remember my first bite by a cute mouse. I was trying to pierce its tiny ear to put an earring, but it didn’t want it :(
In five years I will be…
I see myself being even more confident in this field “immunology & cancer research”, with more knowledge and experience I hope I’ll be working on my Ph.D. in the advanced years. And I know having the opportunity to grow my experience and improve my skills will help bring me closer to achieving that goal.
What drove me to choose this lab?
My interest in immunology and the general effects of chronic inflammation drove me to choose the lab, the good company kept me staying.
My research project
Inflammatory osteoclast precursors and bone loss during chronic inflammation
A funny thing in our lab
The wall we have, covered with scientific cat memes is hilarious!
A first impression I had when I arrived
My first impression was of hard work, reciprocated by good advice, support, and a lot of freedom in research.
A memorable event we had as a lab
The Lautenberg Center annual retreats are by far the most memorable events.
In five years I will be…
Somewhere else… 😅
But seriously, I’ll definitely stay in the field of immunology
What drove me to choose this lab?
Starting from my interview the research sounded fascinating. Afterwards, when I met the lab members and started working, I knew this is the lab I want to be in.
My research project
Inflammatory bone loss mediated by specific osteoclasts precursors
A funny thing in our lab
Every lab member has a different A/C preference, so you can find one with a t-shirt when the other is with a coat, but we are still good friends!
A first impression I had when I arrived
Everyone is so helpful and knowledgeable in here!
A memorable event at the lab
Hanukkah gathering – I was quite new at the first gathering, but already knew that the important thing is the people, and not the candles we forgot to light…
In five years I will be..
Still here! Probably in the culture room, working on my PhD…
What drove me to choose this lab?
When I was in the last year of the Bachelors, I heard a talk by Prof. Michal Baniyash and I was totally engaged by the subject and by Michal.
My research project
B cell – MDSC interaction during chronic inflammation and their effect on the immune system.
A first impression I had when I arrived
When I just arrived to the lab, some older students finished their work and a farewell party was organized in their honor at Michal’s house. It was a nice experience to meet the former students and to be with Michal in a less formal way. We had a lot of those during the years I am in the lab… but I think the nicest thing is that all the lab members and sometimes the former students, as well as our neighboring lab (Prof. Berger) all gather at Michal’s house for a social evening during the Chanukah holiday.
A funny thing in our lab
The funny thing is that every year we forget to light the candles…
In five years I will be…
I actually don’t know yet, maybe I’ll do a postdoc somewhere abroad or I’ll go to work in the field… the most important thing is to do something I enjoy.
