Theresa began her Biology degree at the University of Innsbruck in 2005, focusing on zoology and molecular biology. The program offered a hands-on approach, with Theresa rotating through various labs to gain a wide range of practical skills.
In the early stages, she mastered basic lab techniques—pipetting, centrifugation, and chromatography—while learning to handle acids and bases with care. Microbiology introduced her to the world of culture media and sterile conditions, and in molecular biology, she got a taste of DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
A notable experience came during her time with David Teis’ lab at the Medical University Innsbruck, where she explored yeast genetics, generating mutant strains through PCR-based recombination and using fluorescence microscopy to track proteins of interest. She also dabbled in protein purification and electrophoresis, diving into the inner workings of the MVB pathway.
Her fascination with zebrafish solidified when working in Dirk Meyer’s group, where she honed advanced cloning techniques and microinjection. By the time she embarked on her Bachelor thesis, she was injecting fertilized zebrafish eggs with constructs designed to monitor pancreatic beta-cell activity—using fluorescent markers to visualize calcium levels tied to insulin release.
