Katja Hrovat’s Research Experience at the University of Queensland

Katja Hrovat, a 2023 ASEF Fellow from Slovenia, successfully completed her research visit at the University of Queensland’s School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences under the mentorship of Professor Dr. Boštjan Kobe.

During her visit, Katja worked on optimizing the expression and purification of the mammalian protein TLR8, which is involved in immune response, as well as investigating protein-protein interactions. She also expanded her knowledge of structural biology by participating in weekly laboratory meetings and attending several lectures at the university. Additionally, she had the opportunity to present her previous work at one of the laboratory meetings.

In her free time, Katja explored the city, its surroundings, and parts of the East Coast. She thoroughly enjoyed immersing herself in Australian culture and society. She visited scenic viewpoints near the city, watched sunsets over the skyline, encountered native animals at the Koala Sanctuary, swam in the Pacific Ocean, and hiked in the Glass House Mountains National Park.

This research visit was an incredible learning experience for Katja, both professionally and personally. She is sincerely grateful to ASEF, Professor Boštjan Kobe, and his research group for this invaluable opportunity.