In July 2026, I had the opportunity to participate in UPhDExperience 2026 – “Taste of PhD Experience”, the 3rd UPorto Research Summer School in Microbial Communities, organised by the University of Porto. The programme took place from 6 to 23 July as an Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme in collaboration with EUGLOH.
I chose the internship “Blebs Against the Breach: Visualizing Actomyosin Responses to Pneumolysin-Induced Membrane Damage”, where I was mentored by Silvia Vale-Costa, PhD, at i3S – University of Porto’s institute for research and innovation in health. The internship was part of the Cell Biology of Bacterial Infections group, led by Sandra Sousa, PhD. The aim was to visualize and quantify actomyosin accumulations induced by pneumolysin.
Besides the academic programme, experiencing Porto and its culture was an important part of the Erasmus+ experience. We had plenty of opportunities to explore the city, try the famous Francesinha, and take part in different activities. One of my favourite memories was taking a surfing lesson. I came back to Osijek with valuable laboratory experience, but most importantly, with new friends, connections, and unforgettable memories.
