Sandra Kohlmaier: «Nothing is impossible in research - even if it seems impossible»

As a child I wanted to be...
Nature filmmaker, marine biologist, vet or cancer researcher.

I became...
PhD in molecular biology, who works as a research assistant at the Department of Clinical Research (DKF) Basel in the field of education, training and counselling.

What fascinates me about research...
that often completely new, unexpected paths and possible solutions open up, that nothing is impossible (even if it seems impossible).

«My first research experience was studying bees as a child - today I have a bee venom allergy.»

I gained my first research experience as a...
Child studying the texture of bees and caterpillars - today I have a bee venom allergy, but know that bees feel incredibly soft 😂 - did not deter me from doing my first research work in the lab (Alzheimer's and cancer research) during my studies.

I would like to solve the following research question...
find the all-encompassing remedy for all cancers.

In research, I particularly appreciate...
the curiosity & openness for new things, the courage to scratch at dogmas, to think big and not to let «failures» get you down.

Have you already carried out projects with the PFZ or are you currently planning a project with the PFZ?
No projects, but always much appreciated contact with the PFZ on various topics.

My current project is...
Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) and how it is becoming «THE new normal» in clinical research.

What I particularly like about my current job...
the diversity and variety, the teamwork and the flexibility.

I don't like my current job that much...
administrative aspects, such as making appointments.

«I appreciate the courage to challenge dogmas and think big.»

Who/what inspires me and why...
committed, inspiring people, foreign cultures, nature, self-reflection and new perspectives.

What advice would I give even my 18-year-old self...
Go your own way (no matter how rocky).

If I could work with a famous scientist for a day, it would be... and why?
With Charles Darwin on the Galapagos Islands to discover the diversity of evolution together.

What is my favourite type of music to listen to when I want to concentrate on my research work?
Lo-Fi.

What is important to me...
my family, friends and a black tea with milk and sugar in the morning 😉.

On Sunday mornings I like to do...
a round through the forest.

What's surprising about me is that...
I can't walk slowly.

The best thing that has happened to me so far in 2024...
our «dogsharing» dog.

My current wish is...
more time and a trip to corners of the world that I have yet to discover.

The last book I read was...
«A question of chemistry» by Bonnie Garmus.

I would take the following 3 things with me to a desert island...
2 books that I've wanted to read for a long time and a solid, comfortable boat for when the loneliness gets too much for me.