Jana Musilová heads to ETH Zurich to model hormonal processes
Dr. Jana Musilová from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication at Brno University of Technology (FEEC BUT) has achieved a significant milestone. She has received a grant from the Czech Science Foundation (GAČR) for research on hormonal regulation, opening the door to one of the world’s top universities – ETH Zurich. During her research stay, she will focus on connecting engineering and medicine, specifically on mathematical modeling of biological processes.
Jana Musilová at ETH Zurich. | Photo: J. Musilová
The project that Jana Musilová is taking to Switzerland is titled “Computational Analysis of Steroid Hormones in Ovarian Hyperstimulation: Unraveling Patient Heterogeneity and Follicle Maturation Patterns.” The project’s goal is to bring more precise data and mathematical insight to areas of medicine where doctors have so far had to rely on less accurate indicators.
When Biology Meets Algorithms
Jana Musilová, from the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, has long been dedicated to translating biological processes into the language of computer models. This approach has enormous potential—not only can it replace part of the demanding laboratory experiments, but it also allows us to better understand what is truly happening inside the human body. Jana chose to work on hormonal regulation in women because, despite its crucial medical importance, this area remains largely unexplored.
“For instance, women are often excluded from clinical trials for new drugs. Why? Natural hormonal fluctuations introduce changes into the results that make evaluation more difficult for researchers,” the young scientist points out a gap in current research. “But if we understand these processes and can simulate them on a computer, it opens the way to more precise and effective treatments.”
Searching for More Accurate Indicators
The lack of precise models is evident directly in reproductive medicine as well. In her new project at ETH, Jana will analyze data from women undergoing ovarian stimulation as part of IVF (in vitro fertilization). Using statistics and computational modeling, she will study their hormonal profiles.
“The aim is to better understand why different patients respond differently to hormonal stimulation and to find more accurate indicators of follicle maturation than estradiol, which is currently used as the main marker of ovarian response,” Musilová explains. While estradiol is the current standard, its variability between patients means it is not always fully reliable. Computational models could reveal hidden connections that the level of a single hormone cannot show on its own.
The Challenge Called ETH Zurich
Choosing the institution was an easy decision for Jana. ETH Zurich consistently ranks among the top ten universities in the world and offers a unique environment for interdisciplinary research. Why did she choose this particular place?
“I chose ETH mainly because of the research group I’m joining. They are among the world’s leaders in modeling biological processes and work closely with clinical practice, which is the ideal combination for my project,” says Jana Musilová. She adds: “This research stay is an opportunity for me to grow significantly as a scientist—to learn new approaches, expand my skills, and work in an environment with truly high standards. Even though it will be demanding, it will allow me to meet top experts and absorb their way of working and thinking.”
Beyond the scientific aspects, Jana also looks forward to the inspiring environment of the Swiss university and the country itself. “I’m curious to see how research and teaching are done at such a high level. And, of course, I’m excited about Switzerland itself—nature, mountains, chocolate, and cheese are a wonderful bonus,” she says with a smile.
We congratulate Jana Musilová on receiving the grant and wish her great success in her research in Switzerland!
Author: Zdeňka Koubová
| Responsible person | Ing. Zdeňka Koubová |
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