IDWGS 2025 ****************************************************************************************** * ****************************************************************************************** Tuesday 11 February 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and (IDWGS). The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an opportunity to promote full acce participation for women and girls in science and related fields. Gender equality in science is crucial for building a better future for all, yet women and face systemic barriers and biases in pursuing scientific careers. In celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we interviewed thre women who are involved in science and research at our Faculty of Medicine and University H Králové. prof. Martina Řezáčová, MD, Ph.D. Associate prof. Nela Jouklová, DDS, Ph.D. Associate prof. Dana Čížková, MD, Ph.D. The women researchers talked about their journey to becoming a scientist, the key challeng scientists are currently facing and their perspectives. We also asked them about their development as a scientist, and their perspectives on women science. In the interview you can find answers and ideas for discussion. ****************************************************************************************** * The joy of the magical Aha! moment, that's what I love about science, says prof. Martina Ph.D. ****************************************************************************************** The first of the trio of scientists, we would like to introduce to you, is Professor Marti has been doing scientific research for more than thirty years. In the following interview, among other things, what she enjoys most about the world of science, and who is her greate We also talked about why young women shouldn't be afraid to enter the world of science, an modernised version of the witch is still the typical image of a woman in science in the 21 • She studied General Medicine at the Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, graduating in • Since 2007 she has been the head of the Department of Medical Biochemistry at the Facult Hradec Králové. • In 2014, she was appointed professor in medical chemistry and biochemistry. • She started to work in science during her medical studies, and is involved in research i oncology. • Since 2024, she has been part of the OncoPharm project team, which is concerned with the new approaches in cancer treatment. 1. When and why did you decide to become a scientist? What motivated you to do so? I decided to pursue a career in science during my medical studies. The main motivation for innate curiosity – the desire to understand how molecular processes affect the functioning the development of disease. I wanted to better understand these complex mechanisms, and di new, that could contribute to better diagnosis and treatment. For me, science is a fascina discovey into the unknown, constantly presenting new challenges, and opportunities. 2. What are you specifically involved in? Can you give us a little insight into your work? My work focuses on understanding into the molecular mechanisms that regulate life and dise Specifically, I study how cells respond to DNA damage, for example from ionising radiation and what processes are activated in them – whether it is to repair damaged DNA, stop cell induce cell death. This research is particularly important in oncology, where we are looki to increase the effectiveness of cancer treatment while minimising side effects. In additi study natural compounds, and their potential. My aim is not only to understand the underly processes but also to produce practical results that can improve healthcare. IT IS AN EXTREMELY FULFILLING FEELING, WHEN YOU SUCCEED IN SOLVING A COMPLEX PROBLEM OR DI PRINCIPLE. 3. What do you enjoy most about science? What I enjoy most about science is that magical aha! moment – the moment when everything f pieces of a puzzle and you suddenly see a clear picture. It's a very fulfilling feeling, w to solve a complex problem or discover a new principle. But the fascinating thing is that there – for every problem solved, there are often more questions and unexplored areas. It' process of discovery, that keeps you motivated to dig deeper, seek answers, and keep learn never-ending journey that attracts me most to science. 4. I've read, that since last year, you have been involved in a multi-year research projec OncoPharm, can you describe what this is about? The OncoPharm project focuses on developing new approaches to cancer treatment. The aim of to create a knowledge platform for more effective, and personalised cancer treatment. We a colleagues from the Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, the University Hospital in Hrad Generi Biotech. Together, we are trying to develop new treatments and compounds, that are against tumours, have fewer side effects and overcome the problems associated with resista treatments. SCIENCE IS A FASCINATING WORLD FULL OF CHALLENGES, DISCOVERIES AND OPPORTUNITIES, WHERE YO CURIOSITY, CREATIVITY, AND ANALYTICAL SKILLS. 5. Who is your scientific role model, and why? My biggest scientific role model is my mother, a radiobiologist, who has become my biggest her tenacity and determination. She started out as a lab assistant, but through her incred at work, she worked her way through university, got her PhD, became an associate professor and eventually the head of her department. She did this not only because of her expertise of her strength and ability to deal with the challenges of everyday life. During this jour took care of two daughters - my sister and me - and her ailing mother. Her perseverance, h science and her family, and her tremendous hard work are a lasting inspiration to me. SCIENTISTS ARE WOMEN OF DIVERSE PERSONALITIES, APPEARANCES AND INTERESTS, WHO SHARE A PASS AND FOR SOLVING INTERESTING PROBLEMS. 6. What do you think, people think of when they hear the word scientist? Do you think, the stereotypes associated with women scientists? I think, that when the public thinks of the word 'scientist' or 'chemist' they often pictu white lab coat, hidden behind complicated instruments in a laboratory, surrounded by chemi and twisted glass coolers - a slightly modernised version of the witch of the swamp, conco amidst the smoke and bubbling cauldrons. Maybe it's a woman with a stern expression, glass tight bun - something out of a cartoon. And when stereotypes are added to the word 'scientist', people sometimes slip into absurd the geek who has no time for anything but work, or the perpetually brooding person who is reality. But in reality, women scientists look and live quite normally - they are women wi personalities, looks and interests, united by a passion for discovery and solving interest They work with modern technology, analyse data and lead teams, often in fields that people associate with this image. No swamps, no poisons - in my field, lab coats, pipettes and en I have to admit, having a bit of that alchemist aura can be fun sometimes! 7. What advice would you give to other women (considering a career) in science? My advice to women considering a career in science would be simple: Don't be afraid and go Science is a fascinating world full of challenges, discoveries, and opportunities, where y curiosity, creativity and analytical skills. Don't be afraid of obstacles or stereotypes - to be overcome. In science, it doesn't matter where you come from, what you look like or w male or female - it's your passion and determination that counts. And don't forget that a can be wonderfully flexible, allowing you to balance work and home life. So if science app for it - science needs your ideas and your world view! [ URL "http://"] ****************************************************************************************** * Associate prof. Nela Jouklová, DDS, Ph.D.: What if we could restore the pulp, and bring life? ****************************************************************************************** Associate Professor Nela Jouklová was led to science by chance and is now researching stem dental tissue, which she says is a bit like the tooth fairy. She recently spent several mo fellowship at the University of Tennessee in the USA. In the following interview, she also grandfather, who is her greatest scientific role model, and the essential qualities of a g • She studied Dentistry at the Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, graduating in 2014. • After graduation, she started working at the Department of Dentistry, the Faculty of Med University Hospital in Hradec Králové. She is the head of the Restorative Department and • She investigates the role of stem cells in tooth repair. • She has completed several international internships in Canada, and the USA. 1. When and why did you decide to pursue a career in science? What motivated you to do so? The questions of "how" and "why" have been with me since childhood. Science has always bee to discover, learn and push the boundaries of human knowledge. I want to contribute to mak a better and more evolved place. As a dentist, I also see great progress every day - new m treatments are constantly changing what dentistry can do. Whereas a few years ago some tee been lost, today we can save them thanks to advances. But it requires constant training an keep up with new knowledge. I was actually led to scientific work by chance. A week before graduation, I broke my arm, couldn't start working at the Department of Dentistry in Hradec Králové right away. Instea helping my colleagues at the Faculty of Medicine with literature searches, and that's how fascinating world of scientific research. The second key moment came, when Professor Jakub me the opportunity to join his research team as a PhD student. It was a challenge that I a enthusiasm - and to this day I have no regrets. SCIENCE IS ABOUT PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF WHAT IS POSSIBLE.  2. What specifically do you do? Can you give us a brief introduction to your work? I do research on stem cells isolated from dental tissue. These cells can be taken from bot permanent teeth. We may be competing a bit with the tooth fairy, but stem cells have enorm Under the right conditions, they can become many different types of tissue in the human bo modern area of medicine that has a major advantage over other sources of stem cells - it d any further invasive surgery. Essentially, we are using tissue that would have ended up as waste. At the beginning of my research, I focused on the long-term preservation of these cells, a to regenerate naturally declines with age. Together with colleagues, I developed and paten medium that greatly improves the survival of cells stored at low temperatures. As a dentist, I work in the Restorative Department and Endodontics. My scientific dream is regenerative medicine with endodontics. In root canal treatment, we remove the non-living, tissue from the tooth, and replace it with other material, thus preserving the tooth's fun tooth itself is no longer alive. But what if we could restore the pulp, and give the tooth That would revolutionise dental treatment. We're still a long way from that goal, but that is all about - pushing the boundaries of what's possible. IF I DON'T UNDERSTAND SOMETHING, I DON'T GIVE UP UNTIL I'VE EXPLORED IT FROM EVERY ANGLE. 3. I have read, that you have done several internships in the United States in recent year us what you did there? 2023 was a special year for me. After presenting our research at an international conferen was offered an internship with Professor Huang at the University of Tennessee - Health Sci Memphis, USA. Professor Huang is one of the world's leading experts in regenerative endodo team is working on stem cells, and the possibility of using them to restore tooth pulp. I spent almost eight months in his lab - with a short break to return to the Czech Republi It was a great opportunity for me. Professor Huang is an extremely talented scientist, a m perfectionist and an inspiring personality. I learned new methods, mastered new technologi friends with whom I still work. Even though we are thousands of miles apart, thanks to mod we can continue to work together. 4. What do you enjoy most about science? I most enjoy discovering new things, pushing boundaries, and always having to think ahead. discovery in a project, I am working on, motivates me to keep going. If I don't understand don't give up until I've explored it from every angle. Science is about patience and persistence. As Thomas Edison said, "I have not failed. I've 10,000 ways that won't work." That's the essence of scientific work - trial and error that you to your goal. And that's what fascinates me about science. MY GRANDFATHER'S PERSEVERANCE AND HARD WORK INSPIRE ME EVERY DAY. 5. Do you have a role model in science? A scientist you admire or who has inspired you in My scientific role model is my grandfather, Dr. František Morávek. He was not only a great also an exceptional scientist. He was briefly the head of the Department of Histology and Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové. Despite the difficult conditions of the time, he ma his doctorate in medicine and became a recognised expert in the field of radiation biology He devoted himself to research into post-radiation changes in bone marrow and bowel syndro over a hundred scientific papers and was a member of the European Radiation Research Socie precision were admirable - I still have some of his histological slides at home. Perhaps i him that my scientific interest eventually turned to the study of cells. My grandfather's diligence inspire me every day. 6. What do you think people think about women in science? I think things are getting better. These days, maybe nobody thinks of a woman scientist as a white coat in a laboratory. Women are getting more and more involved in science and ofte different roles. We have a great team in our clinic where everyone helps out, no matter wh is. 7. What advice would you give to other women thinking of a career in science? Don't be afraid to follow your dreams! If you enjoy science, you will definitely find your career in science not only gives you the opportunity to work on interesting projects, but meet new people, and collaborate with colleagues from all over the world. The most important thing is perseverance. Science is not about instant results, but about willingness to keep learning. Every setback is just a step towards success, and this is tr science, but also in life. ****************************************************************************************** * Associate prof. Dana Čížková, MD, Ph.D., loves science because it's creative, collaborat ****************************************************************************************** We asked Associate Professor Dana Čížová, who studies how tissue regenerates, with a focus heart muscle tissue. She works in the electron microscopy laboratory with many Czech and f an interview, she told us, what she enjoys most about her scientific work, and what she wa future. • She graduated from the Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, study program General Medi • After her undergraduate studies, she started working at the Department of Histology and the Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, where she still works. • She is interested in the study of tissue regeneration, focusing mainly on skeletal and c tissue, and electron microscope work. • She received the Fingerland Prize, the prize of Czech Anatomical Society, and the prize of Histo- and Cytochemistry for the best original scientific publications. 1. When and why did you decide to get into science? What made you choose this path? I decided to study theoretical subjects like histology and embryology in the last year of studies at the Faculty of Medicine in HK. I was fascinated by how ingeniously the human bo at the level of organs, tissues and individual cells, and I was attracted by the microscop this structure to be visualised. I started my PhD studies without knowing more about what pursue science. But I learned a lot thanks to my supervisor, prof. Jaroslav Mokrý, and oth colleagues, and today I am sure that it was the right decision. IF WE UNDERSTAND HOW TISSUE REGENERATION WORKS, WE CAN CREATE NEW TREATMENT FOR VARIOUS DI 2. What are you specifically involved in? Can you give us a little background on your work I study how tissue can repair itself. This means the formation of new cells in the tissue, it renews itself. I specialise in skeletal muscle tissue, and heart muscle tissue. While s skeletal muscle have been studied quite a lot, and we understand a lot about how they form fibres, this is not yet the case for cardiac muscle. In fact, we don't even know, if stem the tissue. Adult hearts only produce a small number of new cardiomyocytes, and the only w make them is by splitting the existing ones. If we can understand how new tissue forms, we can use this knowledge to develop new treatm diseases. I use electron microscopy as well as traditional histology and immunohistochemis research. Our lab works with many other teams, including international ones, who come to u research topics. This means I am learning more and more, even about material science. I WANT TO DO HIGH-QUALITY SCIENCE, OPEN AND HONEST. 3. What do you enjoy most about science? It's very creative, team-based and diverse work. When a whole team spends months working o achieve new and interesting results, that help to solve the problem, they're studying. The to publish their results in a journal, that meets the necessary standards. This makes them proud that their hard work was appreciated, and that they are one step closer to developin treat illnesses. 4. What do you want to do as part of your scientific work in the future? I'd like to keep doing what I'm doing. Doing science that's good, open and honest. To deve and introduce new methods, to dedicate myself to my students. We'll see what opportunities 5. Do you have a scientific role model you admire? I respect many of my colleagues and I admire scientists, who lead cutting-edge teams. Ever in a slightly different way, so I don't have one personality, that I look up to. 6. What do you think, people think of when you say "female scientist"? Science is becoming more popular in the media, and many scientists, including women, are t science more popular. I hope that the public's perception of us is improving. I think youn especially, don't see the scientific profession as being special. I'm not sure about the o Maybe I'm wrong about the younger ones? It would be an interesting topic for research. 7. What advice would you give to other women thinking of a career in science? If they are passionate about their work, then they should believe in themselves. If they h gained some experience, they should be confident enough to go their own way.