Vera Stalder

I am writing to apply for the PhD position in Drug Discovery for Trypanosoma cruzi at Swiss TPH. With a foundation in infection biology and hands-on experience in BSL-2 laboratory techniques, I am eager to contribute to your innovative research on neglected tropical diseases. My passion for drug discovery, combined with my ability to work independently and collaboratively, aligns well with the goals of this project.

During my Master’s thesis at NBE-Therapeutics, I screened many cytotoxic compounds for synergysticeffects on cancer cell lines. This work not only honed my skills in cell-based assays and techniques, but also deepened my understanding of translational challenges in drug development. My experience in a BSL-2 environment ensured rigorous adherence to safety protocols while working with infectious and toxic agents.

What excites me most about this PhD opportunity is Swiss TPH’s interdisciplinary approach to tackling Chagas disease. My background in pharmaceutical and drug sciences has prepared me to bridge gaps between in vitro discovery and in vivo validation. I am particularly drawn to the target identification and research on new tools and molecules for improvement of patients lives and I thrive in the iterative process of hypothesis-driven research.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm could support your team’s mission. Thank you for your consideration—I look forward to the possibility of contributing to this critical work.