My scientific journey began with a PhD in biology, followed by three years as a postdoctoral researcher at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States. Next, I worked in Poland and went on internships to Bielefeld, Cambridge, Dundee i Nijmegen. I was a visiting professor in the USA and consultant in Brussels for EU health framework programs. Since 2004, I have been a member of the Polish Academy of Sciences.
Throughout my career, I have mentored and guided many scientists, supervising 19 doctoral students, supporting the careers of 24 postdoctoral researchers, of which 9 have their own research groups. My research contributions include over 160 scientific publications, which have been cited 6,200 times, reflecting the impact of my work.
Beyond research, I have been actively involved in scientific leadership and institutions building. I have secured and managed numerous Polish, European, and NIH-funded grants, helping to advance research initiatives on an international scale.
In the early 1990s, I played a pivotal role in reforming one of the institutes of the Polish Academy of Sciences, now with highest A+ designation – an achievement held by only about 10% of institutions nationwide. I also cofounded and led the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, serving as its director for the first 20 years of its existence and ensuring it obtained and maintained an A+ category. Today, the institute is part of the prestigious EU-Life Alliance.
Recognizing the need for hands-on scientific education, I established the Biocentre for Scientific Education (BioCEN), an organization that conducts hands-on modern biology workshops for middle and high school students. Additionally, I founded the BioEducation Foundation to provide support to BioCEN.
For years I have been actively involved in creating science policy in Poland. I have published many articles on the organization of science, was a member of the first Science Policy Committee and worked for four years on the Council of the National Science Centre, including the last two years as its chairperson.
With my experience, I can help other scientists realize their potential and ensure that they reach the optimal career ladder based on their research achievements and predispositions. Whether it is preparing for interviews, grant applications or career planning, I will point out the right actions.
Prof. dr hab. Jacek Kuźnicki
