Together with the Copernicus Centre, we are pleased to invite you to an online lecture by Łucja Kowalewska (Membrane Labyrinths in the Nanoworld of Cells: From Geometry to Biological Functions) on 10 December, 6pm, as part of the “Science at the Centre” series.
Łucja Kowalewska, photo by Łukasz Bera
Dr hab. Łucja Kowalewska works at the Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw. Her research focuses on plant cell biology, particularly on the structure and dynamics of plastid membranes. Last October, she was presented with the NCN Award for outstanding scientific achievements.
Her work focuses on periodic membranes, whose organisation plays a crucial role in cellular functioning – including plastid biogenesis and photosynthetic efficiency. Dr. Kowalewska’s team investigates how membrane structure influences biological function and which molecular and physicochemical mechanisms govern membrane transformations.
Dr Kowalewska’s research makes a significant contribution to understanding the relationship between membrane geometry and function. The researcher has demonstrated that the spatial organisation of membranes is not merely the result of the self-assembly of their structural components, but also actively regulates cellular processes – marking a shift in the existing paradigm of cell biology.
While her studies are primarily fundamental in nature, understanding the principles of biological membrane self-organisation also holds significant application potential. It provides a foundation for the design of biomimetic nanomaterials that may be used in medicine, pharmacy and food technology – for instance, as drug carriers, materials supporting tissue regeneration or smart coatings.
Footage on Dr Kowalewska’s research
An online lecture organized by the Copernicus Center will be streamed on 10 December, at 6 pm.
In November, a lecture by Maciej Stolarski was delivered. On 17 December, a meeting with Bartosz Szyszko will be held. We encourage you to join it!
The first “Science at the Centre” lectures were delivered by the 2020 NCN Award winners. So far, 16 meetings have been held and we truly appreciate the Copernicus Centre’s support and assistance in their organization.