Hello everyone,

I am Jeske, a fourth-year PhD student in the A-LIFE department. My research focuses on the potential effects of exposure to micro-and nanoplastics during early life, with a particular emphasis on placental function and embryonic development.

When I was younger, I always thought I would become a veterinarian. Unfortunately, I was not accepted into the bachelor's program, so I decided to pursue a degree in pharmaceutical sciences instead. Throughout my bachelor's, I was convinced that I would choose a master’s program unrelated to research. In fact, I even said, “I am never going to do a PhD!”. However, during the final months of my studies, I had to complete an internship, and that is when I discovered that I liked research and working on the lab. As a result, I pursued a master’s in Drug discovery and safety, following the Drug disposition and safety assessment track.

During my master’s, I became increasingly interested in pregnancy. This topic has always fascinated me, partly because my younger sister has Down syndrome. It made me realize how many complex biological processes have to go right during pregnancy, but so many healthy people are born. This fascination led me to search for a master’s internship focused on placental function, which I found in the Environmental Health and Toxicology section of A-LIFE. Fortunately, a PhD position became available that aligned perfectly with my interests, and I was lucky enough to stay! 😉

Aside from my work at A-LIFE, I have played hockey at high level for most of my life. I quit last year and now play for a friends’ team at Hurley (Amsterdamse bos). With more free time, I enjoy going for a run, having dinner with friends, and backpacking in different countries.

Next time, Sanne Bethe will introduce herself. I am looking forward to read her story.