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As a little girl in her native Poland, Hanna Dusza already took all sorts of plants and animals back home. This fascination for nature eventually introduced her to the world of toxicology. Now, she does pioneering research into the most vulnerable phase of human life. That is a good reason to talk with Dusza about her unusual career path, her research and what motivates her.

How did you end up in toxicology?

“I used to dream of working with whales and dolphins in tropical climes, just like many young girls do. I realised that dream as an environmental and marine biologist. Then, I also became interested in pollution and how that harms nature. As I was dating a Dutchman, I googled toxicology in the Netherlands. And that search led me to meeting my current head of department. She convinced me not to follow just a few courses but a complete master’s programme. That was one of the best decisions of my life that led me to where I am today!''

You are now a researcher and lecturer. What is your research about?

“I investigate how environmental pollutants – such as microplastics and pesticides – end up in the unborn baby via the mother’s blood and the placenta. It is striking that although this is the most vulnerable period in human life, we know so little about it. We have developed a unique method with which we can isolate and investigate various environmental pollutants in the amniotic fluid. I’m privileged to be the first person in the world to examine this data, which gives me such an enormous energy boost.”

If we want future generations to grow up healthy, then we need to start ensuring a clean and safe environment now

What motivates you as a researcher?

“If we want future generations to grow up healthy. We must start creating a clean and safe environment today. We showed that many environmental pollutants reach the womb, impacting the most vulnerable - babies who have neither a voice nor a choice in this matter. I believe it’s important that somebody also sticks up for them. Through my research, I hope to shed light on the critical role a healthy living environment plays, starting already in the womb

Why exactly are you doing this work at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine?

“People, animals and the environment are inextricably linked with each other. I really enjoy working together with colleagues at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. That helps us to gain a complete picture of health across the entire ecosystem. It really does feel as if we are working together on something bigger than just our own research here. Also, the faculty takes really good care of its employees. From frequent social events to actively encouraging employees to take off to relax and recharge. I have never experienced this level of care and community at previous universities."

What are your ambitions for the future?

“My aim is not so much to climb the professional ladder but to do high quality valuable research. I dream of having my own lab within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine with a small and dedicated team focusing on research into the placenta. I really want to become a specialist in this discipline and have a clear mission so that we can create an impact.”