Meet our Fellows: Melanie Kienzl

Home University: Medizinische Universität Graz
Host University: Mayo Clinic
Topic: Characterization of mediators in eosinophil subtype migration and survival

I’m grateful to the Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation for giving me the opportunity to spend 6 months at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona, USA. I was working in the group of Elizabeth Jacobsen, PhD within the Division of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology in a very welcoming, collaborative and international environment. My research project focused on deciphering the steroid response of different eosinophil immune phenotypes in the context of asthma. During my visit, I have developed new research skills and was able to explore the mesmerizing landscape of Arizona. Additionally, I developed fruitful collaborations and lifelong friendships. I am confident the invaluable experiences I gained in the lab and outside, helped me to grow and develop not only as a researcher, but also personally.