Lukas P. Feilen

Early on in my scientific career I got interested in how proteins function and how this function is connected to their structure. As a master student, I studied several structural aspects of the amyloid precursor protein and of one of its binding partners. During my time as a doctoral researcher, I got more fascinated about membrane proteins. So, I investigate how structural elements as well as the lipid environment influence the function and active site geometry of aspartyl intramembrane proteases.

As a postdoc in the Autzen Group, I am investigating the structure and function of Na+/H+ exchangers.

Outside the lab I like to go swimming or playing underwater hockey, I enjoy reading books or spending time on cooking and baking

Maria F. Vicino

I studied Chemistry at the University of Bonn, where I first became interested in protein biochemistry during my bachelor’s studies. A master’s course in Integrative Structural Biology and my Master thesis, deepened my fascination with how structural features in proteins and oligonucleotides relate to their function and conformational dynamics. In my PhD, I investigated the CRISPR-Cas13a system to understand how binding of different RNA strands affects the structure and conformational dynamics of the Cas13a protein. To do so, I used Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy in Olav Schiemann’s group at the University of Bonn.

For my postdoctoral research, I wanted to move from this coarse-grained structural method to high-resolution cryo-EM. This transition has led me into the exciting world of acid-sensing ion channels and Na⁺/H⁺ exchangers.

Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my family, partner, and friends. I also love crafting, baking, cooking, and continuing my microbial adventures with sourdough bread.

Caroline Marie Teresa Neumann

Bio goes here.

Ciara F. Pugh

I have been fascinated by the wonderful world of membrane proteins since the dawn of my research career, especially with regards to the trials and tribulations surrounding their use in biophysical studies. Throughout my master’s studies in Claus Løland’s group, I functionally characterized full length, purified dopamine transporter from Drosophila melanogaster, assessing the protein in both detergent micelles and nanodiscs. I then had a brief stint in industry at Evaxion Biotech in immune-oncology research and development, until I was given the opportunity to start a PhD fellowship at the Autzen Group. In the Autzen Group, I will focus on the development of native nanodisc technology for the structural and functional studies of eukaryotic membrane proteins.

I am from Dublin, Ireland – so I am a major fan of stout. Outside of the lab, I enjoy listening to live music, going to the theatre, playing padel tennis and hanging out with friends over coffee or a beer.

KONSTANTINA (ANDY) EPITROPAKI

My scientific journey began when I moved from Athens to Berlin to study chemistry at the Technical University of Berlin (TUB). During my BSc, I focused on the SPP synthesis of amanitin-like peptides in the Süssmuth group. In my MSc in biological chemistry, I explored the world of membrane proteins, working closely with Membrane Bound Hydrogenase (MBH) under the supervision of Oliver Lenz.
Next, I moved to Copenhagen to join the Autzen Group and the Rogers Lab to pursue a PhD. My PhD project focuses on de novo drug discovery for Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASICs) and their structural and functional characterization.

In my free time, I enjoy meeting friends, exploring beautiful Copenhagen, dancing, and traveling around the world.

Céline Brauer

My interest in science started early in school. Being a practical person, I decided to study as a lab technician in Germany, allowing me to combine both my interests. I began working as a research lab technician at the Medical University of Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany, where I could apply my knowledge and gain experience in a wide range of molecular biological techniques.

With my background and expertise, I focus on functional cell assays and cloning in the Autzen group. Additionally, my organizational skills as a lab technician ensure that the lab operates safely, efficiently, and cleanly. I truly enjoy working in the Autzen group; we have excellent teamwork, which enhances our experiments.

I’m from France and moved to Denmark in January 2024. Outside of the lab, I enjoy practicing yoga, cooking, traveling, and reading.

Marie Ginsthofer

As a bachelor student my scientific carrier is just getting started and I am happy to have already uncovered my interest in membrane proteins and their function. My studies in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at the IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences in Austria equipped me with theoretical knowledge and technical skills I can now apply in Autzen Lab.

Here I have the opportunity to do my bachelor project on Na+/ K+ Exchangers and develop new practical skills in a supporting environment.

My free time I like to spend reading, cooking and exploring Copenhagen with my friends.