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- Those aiming for a research career should start engaging in TDK (Undergraduate Research Society) activities as early as possible - says Inez Bosnyák, who won first place in the "Anatomy, Morphology, and Developmental Biology" section of the 37th National Student Research Conference (OTDK) held between April 22–25. The young researcher graduated from the University of Pécs Medical School in 2024 and is currently a PhD student at the Department of Anatomy, where she conducts research and teaches anatomy as an assistant lecturer. In an interview with univpecs.com, she shared her experiences from the OTDK and insights into her research work.

Inez Bosnyák first experienced research as a high school senior when she joined a project at the Institute for Translational Medicine. Her university years became increasingly involved with research, and later with teaching as a demonstrator. During her second year, she developed a strong interest in neuroanatomy, inspired by her instructor, who later became her mentor, and the members of her research group. Their influence led her to pursue both research and teaching at the institute, where she now mentors her own TDK students.

"I work in the Retina Research Group, where we use mouse models to study conditions like oxygen-deprivation-related retinal diseases. My project focused on optimizing a general model, which I presented at the OTDK. Additionally, we test potential protective substance using these models, since many vision-impairing conditions are caused by oxygen deficiency in the retina. We work on multiple projects simultaneously, and everyone contributes to each other’s work—it’s true teamwork. The members of the research group have had a significant impact on my university years and beyond. I believe the saying holds true: you don’t choose a topic; you choose a supervisor. Their personality is crucial in research. These projects cannot be completed alone, as they involve numerous subprocesses," explained Inez Bosnyák. Her supervisors were Dr. Dóra Reglődi, director of Department of Anatomy, and Dr. Alexandra Váczy, senior lecturer. She also mentioned that, alongside these efforts, they develop various methods that significantly aid the research group’s daily work.

The OTDK held in Pécs this April was a particularly meaningful event for her. “Having it in Pécs was special—it allowed friends, colleagues, and our entire research group to attend,” she said. “Their support elevated the experience. While results are great, our goal was to feel confident in our performance, and I believe we did.” She also lauded the organizers: “They not only ran the scientific sessions flawlessly but also prioritized additional events. The gala dinner, with its stunning light projection show, made the event’s significance unforgettable.”

"I encourage everyone interested in a research career to start TDK activities as soon as possible," Inez Bosnyák states. "If someone feels inspired to join a research project—whether it's a topic that fascinates them or a supervisor they would like to work with—they shouldn't hesitate to get involved just because they are unsure. In my experience, the extra effort invested is never wasted. It may not pay off immediately or in the way you expect, but it will eventually be worthwhile."

She emphasized that during practical sessions, you only get a superficial glimpse into the daily operations of an institute or clinic. However, as a TDK student, you work closely with the team and gain insight into the entire structure. This experience not only enhances your time management skills but also helps you make more informed decisions about your career path and potential workplaces, having experienced them firsthand.

Source:

Univpecs.com

Photo:

Szabolcs CSORTOS/UnivPécs