short CV

Since 2024 junior research group leader at the department of medicinal chemistry at Goethe University

2022-2023 Postdoc at the department of organic chemistry at the University of Münster and Kiel

                  Topic: Synthesis of spirocycles via C-H activation

2020-2021 Postdoc at the department of medicinal chemistry at Goethe University

2015-2020 PhD studies at the department of medicinal chemistry at Goethe University

                  Topic: Dual inhibitors targeting the enzymes of arachidonic acid

2013-2015 Master studies of chemistry at the Goethe University Frankfurt

2009-2013 Bachelor studies of chemistry at the Goethe University Frankfurt

Scholarships

2022 Erasmus⁺

2022-2023 Benjamin Walter Program of the DFG

2015-2018 „Translational Research Innovation - Pharma (TRIP)“ (Else Kroener-Fresenius foundation)

PROTACs

While small-molecule inhibitors have been instrumental in targeting disease-associated proteins, they often face challenges including incomplete target suppression, off-target effects, and drug resistance. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) represent an innovative approach with the potential to overcome these limitations by harnessing the cell’s degradation machinery to eliminate the target protein entirely. Unlike conventional inhibitors, PROTACs can target proteins without a defined active site, transforming the undruggable into the yet to be drugged. One key challenge in PROTAC development is hit identification. To address this, we've developed a miniaturized, plate-based CLICK chemistry platform that enables nanoscale synthesis and direct biological testing of crude PROTAC mixtures. Only compounds showing degradation activity are purified and further evaluated, thereby saving time, materials, and accelerating hit discovery.

Spirocycles

We're also exploring novel chemical space with spirocyclic compounds, unique 3D structures known to influence selectivity, solubility, and toxicity. Despite their potential, spirocycles remain underrepresented in drug discovery. Our aim is to design and synthesize new spirocyclic scaffolds and integrate them into modulators targeting kinases and macrodomains, expanding the toolbox for modern medicinal chemistry.