The research activity conducted during the project “SPARk: Adding Pieces to the Puzzle of Sexual Differentiation in P. falciparum: A Systematic Analysis of RNA Processing” mainly focused on reverse genetics in Plasmodium falciparum. During the funding period clonal transgenic parasite lines for the proposed four genes could be generated. All genes had predicted functions in controlling gene expression. Two transgenic parasite lines appear to have an important phenotype with the overall number of gametocytes reduced. For dissemination of the findings to the scientific community a manuscript regarding the results obtained in this project is in preparation. Regarding the exploitation of the obtained results, it is important to note that there is an urgent need for target-based drug development directed against P. falciparum gametocytes. If I can describe genes with a validated importance for Plasmodium gametocyte development, this would lay the basis for future drug development efforts.
Another important aspect of the SPARk project was to provide continuous professional development for myself; thus enabling the acquisition of an independent research position. I successfully finished a course focusing on continuous professional training, especially designed for young researchers. The hessian Centre for Didactics (Giessen, Germany) offers the certified course ‘Competencies for Professional Teaching’. This programme targets the structured development of teaching and leadership competencies over the course of 2-3 years by covering a wide range of fields such as teaching, preparing exams, managing conflicts, and providing equal opportunities. Additionally, I supervised four Master and three Bachelor students thus far, helping me prepare for the multi-faceted roles of supervisor, mentor, and project manager. Recently, I was able to attain a leading independent research position, as group leader within the LOEWE Center ‘DRUID: Novel Drug Targets against Poverty-Related and Neglected Tropical Infectious Diseases’.
