Postcard from London: Ivana Vukšinić at King’s College London

Written by: Ivana Vukšinić

This summer, I had the opportunity to undertake a 10-week research visit at the Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute at King’s College London, under the mentorship of Professor Jernej Ule.

My research focused on the mechanisms that promote the production of shorter mRNA isoforms in cancer cells through a process called alternative polyadenylation (APA). I investigated whether arginine methylation influences interactions between proteins involved in APA and whether changes in these interactions could explain observed alterations in mRNA processing and aberrant gene expression. In addition, I contributed to research on the regulation of RNA transcription in the context of neurodegenerative disorders.

Through my participation in these projects, I gained valuable insight into the entire research process, from independently planning and conducting experiments to optimising experimental conditions, analysing data, and interpreting results. I am particularly pleased that my work during the research visit contributed to a paper that is expected to be published in the near future. 

Beyond my laboratory work, I actively engaged in the academic life of the institute by attending lectures on recent advances in neurodegenerative disease research and participating in weekly lab meetings. These meetings allowed me to learn more about the work of other lab members, present and discuss my own findings, and exchange ideas on methodological questions and challenges encountered throughout the research process.

During my time in London, I also attended an event organised by the VTIS Association at the Slovenian Embassy. The event focused on Slovenia’s role in the global pharmaceutical industry and career prospects in the field, while also providing a valuable opportunity to network with other Slovenians working or studying abroad.

I greatly enjoyed exploring London’s vibrant cultural scene, from plays and musicals to museums, exhibitions, and historic sites, as well as experiencing its diverse international cuisine. During my stay, I also visited Oxford and the English coast, where I embarked on a scenic hike along the famous Seven Sisters Cliffs.

I am very grateful to Professor Ule and the entire team for their warm welcome and for giving me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with new experimental techniques, deepen my scientific knowledge, and develop greater independence as a researcher. Working alongside experienced scientists from diverse fields has significantly broadened my horizons and provided me with valuable insights that I will carry forward into my future work.