Peter Walentek studied Biology at the University of Hohenheim. Because he enjoyed research so much, he decided to do a doctorate at the Institute of Zoology. Today, he works as a Research Group Director at the Center of Biosystems Analysis at the University Medical Center Freiburg.
His Tips
Understand the formal processes in your program. That makes your life a lot easier.
When it’s time to start your career: Ask graduates about their experiences.
Think about the next step early. For example if you want to apply for a scholarship or are looking for a new position, you need to do that well in advance.
Find and do something that you’re enthusiastic about and that motivates you!
Emmy-Noether Study Group Director - Center of Biosystems Analysis, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Freiburg
Studies at the University of Hohenheim 2002-2007
Biology (then still a Diplom degree program)
Job
What are typical activities for you in your job?
I lead a research group looking at the structure of respiratory epithelium. We are trying to find out what signal pathways, genes, and proteins lead to epithelium developing normally. And vice versa: Why there are developmental disorders and chronic lung diseases.
And what is the coolest thing about the job?
I have a lot of freedom in my research. I can pursue certain things because they’re interesting - and not because someone tells me I need to. That also requires creativity: I develop questions, come up with suitable experiments, and look at how my team can implement them. And because I am always at the edge of what is known, the job remains interesting.
“In research you’re always at the edge of what is know - that means it stays interesting.”
Studies
Why the University of Hohenheim? And why Biology?
When it comes to the subject, it took a long time for me to decide from among Art, Medicine, and Biology. But because I had always wanted to get into science, Biology seemed to be the most appropriate choice. The University of Hohenheim was at the top of my priority list for two reasons: It was close to where I lived back then, and it was a good size. Not too small, but also not a university where you disappeared in the crowd. That also had positive effects on the opportunities I had during my studies.
What were your studies like?
I focused on embryonic development and membrane physiology. Like in my current job, it was about communication among cells, how they receive signals, and how they react to these signals. I also improved my soft skills and presentation techniques.
What about experiences outside of the classroom?
I did a research stay in the USA: In Boston at the Forsyth Institute at Harvard University. There, I researched regeneration mechanisms of flatworms. It was a great time that was made even better because I was supported financially by the Herzog-Carl Scholarship.
Starting in the second semester in Hohenheim, I also worked at various institutes as a student assistant and got to know teaching and research better.
“The research stay in the USA was great for me.”
What competences from your studies are important in your job today?
You learn to analyze problems and find solutions. You need this ability in the lab every day, but also when teaching and organizing group work. Besides that, in everyday professional life of course you need expertise and soft skills.
When I think back on my studies in Hohenheim, I think of...
...embryos. That might sound very technical, but I just love my research topic!
