Ana-Florina's research investigated whether the “knob” domain of a bovine-derived antibody fragment could independently bind to HIV-1’s envelope protein, gp120, despite the virus’s glycan shield. By expressing gp120 in mammalian cells and working to optimize knob expression, her project explored its potential as one of the smallest antibody fragments capable of neutralization, opening new possibilities for HIV therapeutic design.
Being part of a new research environment and culture pushed me to reflect on how much lab dynamics shape research. Compared to Berkeley, I became aware of how mentorship styles, communication norms, and institutional context influence not just the way research is conducted, but also how I worked, thought, and collaborated as a scientist.
Ana Florina Galic
Junior | UC Berkeley | Australia | Molecular & Cell Biology and Data Science