I am Dávid Szinger. I live in the vicinity of Budapest, Hungary.
I am a biotechnologist interested in immunology. Coming from an engineering background, I enjoy developing methods to answer life-science questions.
Current occupation: looking for one, preferably where my qualities fit.
Since my early education, I have been a science enthusiast; I like to learn about how things work. My main scope is immunology, autoimmunity, vaccines and biotechnology. I also enjoy reading about diverse fields of science and philosophy. I have a strong drive to apply my knowledge and create something people value. With an engineering mindset, I like to break complex projects into solvable problems; however, it is very important to me that my work stays connected to benefiting society.
Intellego → Laudo → Adhibeo
to understand, to praise, to apply
Servitum per scientiam
servitude via science
Motivation to learn:
I am attracted to learning new things, inside or outside my profession. I like to try new things from time to time.
No need to over-explain; I have found the "aha! moment" to be one of the most rewarding feelings.
Learning new things keeps my mind open; it is a self-propulsed cycle.
Motivation to create:
I always liked to make things. The process of creating and then watching it be useful, or watching it amuse people, was the reward. The right terms for it are "flow" and "authentic pride"; I seek these when I make things.
The process of making something that works is crucial to validating my knowledge. It is the only cure for 'impostor syndrome'.
Working together for a higher good and a feeling of belonging is what makes me feel good at work.
Motivation to teach:
I find teaching a very important function in society: it is important in professional succession, and it is an investment in the quality of my future professional community. I had very good mentors, and I have mentees who make me proud just by finding their ways in science.
To teach is to be a student again, keeping my knowledge sharp and pushing myself deeper into a topic.
It is a very good feeling to give the "aha! moment" for some else.
Experience:
Bacterial recombinant protein expression and purification, development of ELISA methods, flow cytometry, aseptic work and cell culturing, university teaching (practices and seminars) and personal mentoring.
Education:
2022 – 2026 Pécs
University of Pécs, Medical School, Dept. of Immunology and Biotechnology
Candidate for PhD in immunology – defence expected in November 2026;
Research topic: seroepidemiology of regional viral immunity, role of natural autoantibodies and B-cells in health and autoimmune disease;
Teaching of Applied Immunology practice for Biotechnology MSc students and Western Blotting/ELISA for Clinical Laboratory Researchers.
2020 – 2022 Pécs University of Pécs, Medical School
Medical biotechnologist MSc (English language training);
The effects of CD180 stimulation on the activation of B cells in systemic sclerosis;
Expanding the Hungarian Biotechnologist Student Association (MaBE) in its early days by organising three events (1,2,3);
Open House events, programs organised for high school students and the general public (e.g., creating an “Immune” escape room);
2016 – 2020 Budapest University of St. Stephen (today: MATE)
Bioengineer BSc with biotechnology specialisation;
Internship in the Department of Virology, National Public Health Institute (Budapest); and Host-Pathogen Interaction and Microbial Genetics Group, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology (Gödöllő);
ISO 9001 internal auditor certification.
2010 – 2016 Budapest Petrik Lajos Bilingual Vocational School
Laboratory technician;
C1 in English;
Internship at Sanofi pharmaceutical chemical plant.
I have two turtles who are more than pets. Keeping turtles takes determination, a lifestyle, and a never-ending project. Turtles are fascinating creatures. They are not easy to understand, but once their needs are met, they can show their personality. From a bioengineering perspective, developing their habitat is also fun. I am experimenting with a water treatment system that is supported by a living machine arrangement. It mixes water chemistry, biology, bioengineering, automation, and, of course, turtle-ology.
Periodically, I read and write novels in English and Hungarian. My favourite styles are (hard) science fiction and thrillers, but it is the story and the delivery, not the style, that make a good book. Reading books is one of the best ways to understand and take in ideas. Interesting ideas are present in almost every book, including thriller and fiction novels. Writing books constantly motivates me to research the widest range of topics.
I also enjoy hiking, exploring, travelling and listening music, specially rock'n'roll.