Interview

„GrK 1172 motivated me to test and to learn new techniques”

Amany Balah had a GrK 1172 scholarship from September 2006 till September 2007. After her studies of Pharmacy at the University of Al-Azhar did her doctoral degree in Prof. Mühl’s resarch group with a thesis entitled “Synergistic effects of IL-18 and double stranded RNA poly(I:C) in leukemic KG-1 cells”.

How did GrK 1172 called your attention?
I heard from my supervisor about the GrK 1172 project.

What tipped the scales for your application for GrK 1172?
Beside my work in the laboratory, I had the opporunity to increase my scientific background mainly in life sciences through intensive courses.

What were your expectations to the program?
The program might be helpful to increase my knowledge in life sciences especially in Molecular Medicine.

Did the program meet your expectations?
Yes, in addition to the excellent scientific atmosphere the discussions with the other graduate students were fruitfull for my studies in the laboratory.

Had GrK workshops and interaction between the scholars been stimulating for you?
Yes, because the GrK discussions with the other graduate candidates were helpful to find new directions and ideas concerning my work.

Do you think that scientific work profited from the integration of the doctorate in GrK 1172?
Yes, mainly because it motivated me to test and to learn new techniques.

Which are your advices to interested students?
Take the chance and participate in the GrK program it improves your scientific knowledge.