Behind the Scenes of AMR Accelerator Data Management

How do you maintain enthusiasm in your research journey?

I would say this is a very important question for any researcher and one that I struggled a lot with during my PhD at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. Initially, I studied Biology in Bonn, where I focused on neuroscience. During my internships in Boston and later in my PhD, I worked on understanding brain development using OMICs (omics refers to a field of study in biological sciences that ends with -omics, such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, or metabolomics) tools and Python programming. After completing a short postdoc, I joined Fraunhofer ITMP in Hamburg, which led me to become part of the AMR Accelerator through COMBINE and GNA NOW projects.

What I’ve learned is that I need to see a clear link between my work and a tangible impact—even if it helps improve the life of just one person. Knowing that my efforts contribute, directly or indirectly, to reducing suffering and creating a healthier world keeps me engaged and motivated.

During my PhD in basic science, I sometimes struggled to see that connection, which made it hard to stay passionate. Within AMR Accelerator, the link is very palpable for me as we strive to prevent the spread of diseases caused by resistant microbes. The opportunity to address a pressing global health challenge inspires me to work in AMR research. By tackling antimicrobial resistance today, we can help prevent severe health consequences in the future.

Can you describe a typical day for you?

I usually start my workday between 8 and 9 AM by checking the latest publications and emails, and then creating a to-do list to structure my day. My schedule often includes various video calls for different projects, including work package meetings for COMBINE.

As I am responsible for FAIR data within the AMR Accelerator, I frequently collaborate with research sites to standardise data and ensure it is uploaded to open platforms. When I’m not in meetings, I focus on my tasks—though balancing calls and doing the work can sometimes be a challenge. Currently, I am testing the grit42 software and working on uploading COMBINE data to enhance its FAIRness.

What advice would you give other researchers or students interested in AMR research?

Learn programming and data handling next to laboratory research. Those skills will become more and more important and boost your career!

How do you think the public can contribute to the fight against AMR?

AMR is a global crisis that affects everyone, and we all have a role to play in combating it. We should use antibiotics responsibly—only when prescribed—and always complete the full course of treatment. Reducing the consumption of meat from mass animal farms can help limit antibiotic overuse, which contributes to resistance in our food and water systems. Practising good hygiene and staying up to date with vaccinations also helps prevent infections, reducing the need for antibiotics.

What interests do you have outside of your research?

In my free time, you will find me cosily snuggled up reading a book, dancing ballet, doing yoga, hiking, or, on a lazy Sunday, brunching with friends. I love the topic of psychology, and I am completing training on it soon, which will give me the chance to tackle health issues from another side.

How do you balance your professional and personal life?

I am very strict about my working hours—I don’t overwork, I avoid working in the evenings, and I keep my weekends free. When I get home, I consciously disconnect from work. However, I’ve learned that true balance isn’t just about setting time boundaries—it’s about mindset.

During my PhD, I saw colleagues staying late and working on weekends, and I often felt the internal pressure to do the same. But I made a deliberate choice to stick to my schedule, knowing that rest is essential for creativity and efficiency. It wasn’t always easy, and I had to actively resist the belief that success requires constant overworking. In the end, maintaining this balance never harmed my career—on the contrary, it’s one of the reasons I am where I am today.