The Antoniou Lab
The Team

Anna Antoniou
Assistant Professor (Tenure-Track)
Originally trained in Biochemistry, I have been fascinated with the molecular underpinnings of nervous system development and function ever since my PhD at the MRC Center for Synaptic Plasticity, UK. As a post-doctoral fellow in Germany, I worked on the molecular mechanisms of neuronal microRNA biogenesis and the role of microRNA secretion in extracellular vesicles in synaptic plasticity. In my spare time, I enjoy taking my dog for long walks, learning new pieces on the piano and visiting contemporary art exhibitions.

Yuzhou Zeng
PhD Student
For my doctoral thesis I am investigating how microRNAs are sorted into extracellular vesicles in neurons. I have studied neuroscience internationally, starting with a BSc at the University of Bristol and an MPhil at the University of Cambridge. Now based in Germany, I am continuing my research into the molecular mechanisms of the nervous system. Outside the lab, I enjoy photography, baking, and playing the piano.

Selina Luhmann
PhD Student
I did my Bachelor degree in Bioscience at the University of Münster, and got interested in neuroscience while writing my bachelor thesis at the department of Neurobiology and behaviour. I then moved to Düsseldorf and continued my studies at the Heinrich Heine University in the Masters degree „Translational Neuroscience“, and my Masters thesis at the DZNE Bonn. Currently, I’m working on the mechanisms of extracellular vesicle transmission in neuronal networks. In my free time I enjoy outdoor activities, mainly cycling and hiking. I also do Judo about twice a week.

Huseyin Kocakusak
PhD Student
Having completed my Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics at the İzmir Institute of Technology, I pursued a Master's degree at the İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, where my interest in RNA-mediated intercellular communication in the brain deepened through my work on tRNA-derived small RNAs carried by extracellular vesicles from polarized microglia and their role in neuroinflammation. My PhD focuses on how neurons package non-coding RNAs into extracellular vesicles and transmit them across synapses to regulate local protein synthesis. Alongside my research, I train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, combine strength and endurance training, and enjoy outdoor activities such as beekeeping, hiking and camping.

Julian Moser
Master's Student
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a focus on Microbiology and Genetics and am currently completing my Master’s in "Molecular Microbiology, Microbial Ecology and Immunobiology" at the University of Vienna. Additionally, I have earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Sports Science. My PhD (in Sports Science) focuses on the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in exercise and health, particularly their function in cellular communication and their broader physiological relevance, including nervous system disorders. Conducting my Master’s thesis here and gaining valuable lab experience is a key step in my development as a young scientist. Outside the lab, I enjoy all kinds of sports, especially running, which keeps me energized and inspired.

Sude Nur Sandikci
Master's Student
I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology & Genetics at Istanbul Technical University and am currently pursuing my Master’s in Molecular Biology at the University of Vienna. I worked in several projects during my time at ITU. My interest in neuroscience started during a project on early diagnosis of TBI and increased throughout my thesis work on microglial cells. Here, my research focuses on investigating the interactions between glial cells and neurons.
Outside the lab, I enjoy reading and going to movies.

Aliki Nowatschek
Master's Student
I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy at the University of Vienna and I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Pharmacy.
In my Master’s thesis I investigate extracellular vesicle-mediated communication between neurons using a luminescence based reporter assay.
Outside the lab, I enjoy playing basketball, as well as spending time outside hiking and gardening.

Vanessa Khang
Master's Student
I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy at the University of Vienna. Now, I am continuing my studies as a Master's student. In addition, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Biotechnology at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences with a focus on Medical Biotechnology. For my master’s thesis, I focus on characterising extracellular vesicles isolated from induced nociceptor-like cells. Outside of academics, I love cooking for family and friends, kickboxing and starting another crochet project, while blissfully ignoring unfinished ones.
Previous Group Members
Dr. Heba Ali
Cornelia Oktavia Liaunigg
Lena Kostner, MSc
Aditi Saha, MSc
Dr. Loic Auderset
Maria Allahham, MSc
Sareen Warsi, MSc
Sarah Uhan, MSc