Short Biography
Daniel Hornburg studied molecular biotechnology at the Technical University of Munich and the Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, USA). In 2010, he received the EXIST entrepreneurial fellowship (BMBF) for the development of enzymatic complexes to degrade resilient substrates. Daniel joined the lab of Matthias Mann for his PhD studies in 2011 where he devised, developed and applied proteomics technologies to investigate neurodegenerative diseases. As postdoctoral fellow, Daniel has joined the group of Systems Immunology at the MPI of Biochemistry in 2015 to work on clinical proteomics. During his stay at the MPI of Biochemistry he has been strongly involved in research associated with the ToPAG (Toxic Protein AGgregation in Neurodegeneration) project. ToPAG is a prestigious six-year interdisciplinary research project funded by the EU and carried out by two Max Planck Institutes. Key to the success of this project is collaborative research and the exchange of ideas and results between several cutting edge labs from different institutes.
What do you like about IMPRS?
The IMPRS program offers unique opportunities on multiple levels. Firstly, the impressive repertoire of scientific soft skill workshops not only allowed me to acquire new expertise in a broader context but also to specifically develop core competences, for example, in scientific writing and grant application. Secondly, IMPRS provides a great, interdisciplinary scientific network that fueled many collaborative projects we have published in recent years. Thirdly, I am confident I will benefit from an active alumni network in my future career.
Why did you choose Munich and what did you enjoy about living in this city?
Munich offers one of the biggest science clusters in Europe providing ideal conditions to perform interdisciplinary research. In addition, Munich is a great city to live in. Warm summers and just one hour to get to your favorite snowboarding spot in the alps during the snowy winter months…
What did you find to be the best aspects of studying at the MPIB?
You will find world leading experts in both basic biological research as well as technology development. That combination is very powerful and exciting.
How did the IMPRS program help to prepare you for your postdoc?
First and foremost, the workshops offered in the IMPRS program were extremely valuable to pursue a scientific career. Moreover, the IMPRS coordination office provided great support and valuable feedback throughout my PhD that helped me to shape and prepare my future career steps. What advice would you give to students considering studying here? Establish and make use of your scientific network. Science is a team effort!