New research group targets innovation in agriculture and medicine

From developing biosensors for plant monitoring to searching for new anticancer compounds, the new Biointerface Technologies research group will cover a broad range of topics. The group has been operating at CATRIN since 1 July under the leadership of David Panáček in collaboration with Tomáš Malina. Alongside its scientific objectives, the group also has an important strategic aim: to enhance the competitiveness of young researchers applying for prestigious European grants, including ERC Starting Grants.

“The newly established group responds to the growing need to connect advanced materials research with biological and medical applications, whether by monitoring biological analytes in the human body or in plants. One research line will focus on sensors for plants, enabling the monitoring of various soil analytes, including pH and salinity, as well as the early detection of harmful viruses and bacteria. The second, led by Tomáš Malina, will concentrate on biomedical research, particularly the development of compounds with anticancer activity,” said David Panáček, Leader of the group.

The establishment of the research group is also intended to strengthen the researchers’ chances of securing European projects. Its first years will therefore be an important period in which the group will develop its research direction, build international visibility and seek external grant funding to support further growth. “Having a smaller, early-stage group with a strong publication record significantly increases our chances of succeeding in European competition. It is a model commonly used at leading institutions abroad,” added Panáček, who gained international experience during a research stay at Imperial College London. His colleague Tomáš Malina can likewise draw on his experience at Karolinska Institutet, where he previously worked.

For both researchers, establishing an independent research group represents another important step in their careers. “It is an achievement and a source of satisfaction. I have always enjoyed leading people in one way or another and motivating them to work at the highest level. Naturally, I also see it as a responsibility, but we will do everything we can to succeed,” said Panáček, adding that the group would gradually expand.