From September 1 to 5, 2025, the CIB TIP at Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice hosted the Summer School on Protein Engineering 2025, titled From DNA to Proteins. The program brought together 10 selected second- and third-year undergraduate students in natural science programs from Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice and Palacký University in Olomouc for an intensive week of lectures and hands-on training.
The Summer School program consisted of specialized lectures and laboratory exercises focused on recombinant DNA preparation, protein expression in the bacterial system Escherichia coli, and subsequent protein purification. Participants also had the opportunity to explore modern approaches in molecular biology and biotechnology while gaining hands-on experience with the entire process – from DNA manipulation to protein production.
During the course, students actively participated in discussions, asked questions, and contributed their own ideas, enriching both the academic program and the exchange of experiences. Their presence after the summer break also brought new energy to the shared CIB and KBF facilities, where participants had the opportunity to meet other colleagues and learn more about their work.
The aim of this first Summer School as well as of the future annual editions is to introduce students to the field of protein engineering. Participants gain both specialized knowledge and practical skills that they can apply not only during their studies and further academic direction but also in their future professional careers. This year’s Summer School on Protein Engineering was organized as part of the APBC project – Advanced Protein Biotechnology Consortium, funded through the Recovery Plan. The project supports young talents in protein biotechnology and creates opportunities for scientific career development in Slovakia, particularly in the Eastern Slovak region, thereby contributing to reducing brain drain.
