TABMED 2025 projects
The main component of the summer program is an active participation in the selected medical and pharmaceutical research project offered by the staff members of the Collegium Medicum, please see the topics and their descriptions below. Interested students are welcome to contact possible advisors for more details concerning the foreseen projects and discuss the dates that the project could be undertaken.Pharmacy:
- Drug research using Computer-Aided Drug Design
- Application of in silico methods in the study of drug liberation, absorption, transport, metabolism, and removal
- Application of computational methods to drug pharmacokinetics research
- Developing new drugs in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus - molecular modeling phase study
- New drugs active in treatment of cardiovascular diseases - in silico research study
- Developing new drugs in treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension - molecular modeling phase study
- Synthesis of new amidrazone derivatives as potential drug candidates and assessment of their potential biological activity
Pharmaceutical Sciences:
- The effect of cypermethrin the pyrethroid on ion transport in skin tissue
- Evaluation of the Quality of Mineral-Based Supplement Formulations for Pregnant Women
- Exploring the elemental composition of honey: characterization, authenticity, and health benefits
Health Sciences:
- Cross-National Analysis of Visual and Textual Elements in Adapted Cancer Prevention Materials: Examining Communication Accessibility Standards for Populations with Intellectual Disabilities
- Temporal Analysis of Message Framing and Communication Strategies in Breast Cancer Prevention Campaigns: A Longitudinal Study of Public Health Communication Evolution
Drug research using Computer-Aided Drug Design
Aims: The internship's goal is to familiarize/improve students' understanding of Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD) approaches based on bio- and chemoinformatics research techniques. These methods are now widely utilized in pharmacy, medicine, biology, and chemistry. The goal of the research endeavor is to determine the nature/mechanism of action of bioactive substances. The study focuses on a subset of medications used in the treatment of diabetes. During the internship, the student will take part in experiments that will make use of a number of computer programs. The student will also be involved in the design of experiments, data analysis, and findings discussion.
Tasks: The offer of scientific cooperation is directed to a person who has documented publication of achievements in a given research area. Experience in molecular modeling involving the interaction of ligands with transporting proteins (docking techniques) and molecular dynamics methods are required.
| Supervisor: | Dr hab. Alicja Nowaczyk, prof. UMK (alicja[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Faculty of Pharmacy | |
| Internship period: | 1 - 31 August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | pharmacy |
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Application of in silico methods in the study of drug liberation, absorption, transport, metabolism, and removal
Aims: The bioavailability of drugs is a critical factor in pharmacology, as it directly impacts the efficacy of medication treatment. Understanding the liberation, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of drugs in patients' bodies is crucial for ensuring appropriate and safe treatment. Despite biochemical activity, the bioavailability of a substance is also crucial for obtaining the intended therapeutic effects. It is important to keep in mind that for a medicine to have the desired effect, it must reach the intended location in the patient's body at the appropriate concentration. Due to variations across patients, medication dosages, and methods of administration, the comprehension and regulation of bioavailability have emerged as a primary concern in the field of pharmacology. The purpose of the internship is to familiarize/enhance students' knowledge of in silico methods based on bio- and chemoinformatics research techniques. The research objective of the project is to clarify selected issues describing the bioavailability of a drug in the body. During the internship, student will participate in experiments using a variety of computer programs. The object of proposed research is a group of selected drugs used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The student will also be actively involved in the design of experiments, data analysis and discussion of results.
Tasks: The offer of scientific cooperation is directed to a person who has documented publication of achievements in a given research area. Experience in molecular modeling involving the interaction of ligands with transporting proteins (docking techniques) and molecular dynamics methods are required
| Supervisor: | Dr hab. Alicja Nowaczyk, prof. UMK (alicja[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Faculty of Pharmacy | |
| Internship period: | 1 - 31 August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | pharmacy |
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Application of computational methods to drug pharmacokinetics research
Aims: Pharmacokinetics pertains to the mechanisms by which a substance or xenobiotic progresses throughout the body. It comprises metabolic changes of the substance in the body as well as mechanisms of liberation, absorption, and distribution, which ascertain how a particular drug or xenobiotic effects the body subsequent to administration. The objective of the internship is to acquaint and expand students' understanding of bioinformatics and chemoinformatics based on in silico drug testing methodologies. These methods are currently extensively utilized in the fields of pharmacy, medicine, biology, and chemistry. The objective of this research endeavor is to develop a methodology for elucidating specific matters pertaining to the movements of a pharmaceutical substance within the human body. The object of the proposed research is a group of selected drugs for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. During the internship, students will participate in experiments involving a variety of computer programs. The student will also actively participate in the design of experiments, data analysis, and discussion of the results.
Tasks: The offer of scientific cooperation is directed to a person who has documented publication of achievements in a given research area. Experience in molecular modeling involving the interaction of ligands with transporting proteins (docking techniques) and molecular dynamics methods are required
| Supervisor: | Dr hab. Alicja Nowaczyk, prof. UMK (alicja[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Faculty of Pharmacy | |
| Internship period: | 1 - 31 August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | pharmacy |
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Developing new drugs in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus - molecular modeling phase study
Aims: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an expanding global health problem, closely linked to the epidemic of obesity. Individuals with T2DM are at high risk for both microvascular complications (including retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy) and macrovascular complications (such as cardiovascular comorbidities), owing to hyperglycaemia and individual components of the insulin resistance (metabolic) syndrome. For this reason, the search for new drugs to treat T2DM continues to be one of the main objectives of researchers. During the internship student will be familiar with new drug design methods based on in silico computational chemistry. In silico computational methods are widely used in pharmacy, medicine and allied fields. The aim of the study will be determination of physicochemical and pharmacodynamic properties of selected substances with potential activity in T2DM treatment. The student will be personally conducting in silico experiments using specialized drug design software as a part of internship. Moreover, the intern will be actively involved in the design of experiments, data analysis, discussion of the results and also determining conclusions from the study
Tasks: The offer of cooperation is directed to a person who has documented publication of achievements in a given research area. Experience in "in silico" computational chemical methods are required.
| Supervisor: | Łukasz Fijałkowski, PhD (l.fijalkowski[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Faculty of Pharmacy | |
| Internship period: | 1 - 31 August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | pharmacy |
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New drugs active in treatment of cardiovascular diseases - in silico research study
Aims: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of mortality internationally. Therefore, the search for new drugs to treat CVDs remains a major challenge for researchers. During the internship student will be introduced to new drug design methods based on in silico computational chemistry. The aim of the study will be determination of physicochemical and pharmacodynamic properties of selected substances with potential activity in treatment of CVDs. The student will be personally conducting in silico experiments using specialized drug design software as a part of internship. Moreover, the intern will be actively involved in the design of experiments, data analysis, discussion of the results and also determining conclusions from the study.
Tasks: The offer of cooperation is directed to a person who has documented publication of achievements in a given research area. Experience in "in silico" computational chemical methods are required.
| Supervisor: | Łukasz Fijałkowski, PhD (l.fijalkowski[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Faculty of Pharmacy | |
| Internship period: | 1 - 31 August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | pharmacy |
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Developing new drugs in treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension - molecular modeling phase study
Aims: Pulmonary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. In one form of pulmonary hypertension, called pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), blood vessels in the lungs are narrowed, blocked or destroyed. During the internship student will be introduced to new drug design methods based on in silico computational chemistry.. The aim of the study will be determination of physicochemical and pharmacodynamic properties of selected substances with potential activity in PAH treatment. The student will be personally conducting in silico experiments using specialized drug design software as a part of internship. Moreover, the intern will be actively involved in the design of experiments, data analysis, discussion of the results and also determining conclusions from the study.
Tasks: The offer of cooperation is directed to a person who has documented publication of achievements in a given research area. Experience in "in silico" computational chemical methods are required.
| Supervisor: | Łukasz Fijałkowski, PhD (l.fijalkowski[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Faculty of Pharmacy | |
| Internship period: | 1 - 31 August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | pharmacy |
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Synthesis of new amidrazone derivatives as potential drug candidates and assessment of their potential biological activity
Aims: The search for new pharmacological substances is an important task in the search for more effective drugs for specific diseases. The main sources of new substances are compounds of natural origin (e.g. plant extracts) as well as those obtained by chemical synthesis. Amidrazones (amide hydrazones) are excellent precursors for the synthesis of new cyclic compounds, e.g. 1,2,4-triazole or pyrrole-2,5-dione derivatives. Amidrazone derivatives exhibit various biological activities e.g: antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anticancer and one of them (deplazolid) has been qualified for clinical trials as a potential anti-tuberculosis drug.
The aim of the project is to obtain a series of new amidrazones derivatives and to estimate their potential biological activity using computational techniques.
Tasks: Laboratory research tasks will include the synthesis of starting compounds (amidrazones), and obtaining their derivatives in reaction with trans-1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylic anhydride. The obtained compounds will be purified by crystallization and characterized by spectroscopic methods (1H NMR, 13C NMR). Computational research tasks will include predicting bioavailability parameters of the obtained compounds and their potential biological activity with the use of selected programs (eg. Molinspiration, PASS). After the end of the project, the obtained compounds will be sent for appropriate biological studies.
| Supervisor: | Renata Paprocka, PhD (renata.bursa[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Faculty of Pharmacy | |
| Internship period: | 5 - 31 August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | pharmacy |
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The effect of cypermethrin the pyrethroid on ion transport in skin tissue
Aims: The effect of cypermethrin, a pyrethroid used in bedbug control products, on ion and water transport in skin tissue will be evaluated. Measured directed changes in sodium and chloride ion transport under the influence of xenobiotics such as cypermethrin are associated with the development of hypersensitivity and/or allergy, hyperexcitability and pain sensation, as well as with the formation of pigmented lesions.
Tasks:
- Preparation of skin tissue specimens from laboratory animals to assess the prolonged effect of cypermethrin at a concentration of 0.01 mM.
- Measurements of electrophysiological parameters of skin tissue after cypermethrin exposure.
- Calculation of the obtained results.
- Statistical analysis of the obtained results, together with their interpretation.
- Statement of conclusions: whether cypermethrin modifies ion transport and, therefore, causes the development of hypersensitivity/allergy, hyperactivity and/or pigment changes.
| Supervisor: | Dr hab. Iga Hołyńska-Iwan, prof. UMK |
| Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry | |
| Internship period: | August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | Pharmaceutical Sciences |
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Evaluation of the Quality of Mineral-Based Supplement Formulations for Pregnant Women
Aims: The main objective of this project is to assess the quality of mineral-based dietary supplements intended for pregnant women, focusing on the alignment between the declared and actual content of minerals. Given the importance of adequate mineral intake during pregnancy, the project will also aim to optimize the methodology for quantitative analysis of mineral content using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy. This technique will enable precise measurement and comparison of the mineral composition in the tested supplements. Furthermore, the project seeks to explore the discrepancies between the information provided by manufacturers and the actual content of minerals, with implications for consumer safety and supplement efficacy.
Tasks:
- Perform an extensive literature review on the necessity of mineral supplementation during pregnancy, highlighting the essential elements required for maternal and fetal health.
- Optimize the X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy method for accurate and reliable measurement of mineral concentrations in dietary supplements.
- Quantify the levels of selected minerals (e.g., calcium, iron, magnesium) in a variety of dietary supplements marketed for pregnant women and compare these findings with the manufacturer's declared contents.
- Analyze the results in the context of the rapidly growing global dietary supplement market. The increasing consumer demand for healthy lifestyle products, combined with the lower regulatory standards for supplements, raises concerns about the potential risks associated with discrepancies in product quality and content declarations.
| Supervisor: | Dr Natalia Piekuś-Słomka |
| Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry | |
| Internship period: | August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | Pharmaceutical Sciences |
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Exploring the elemental composition of honey: characterization, authenticity, and health benefits
Aims: The project aims to analyze the multielement composition of honey using Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF). By identifying and quantifying macro- and micro-elements, the research will provide a detailed characterization of honey from different regions and sources. The elemental profile of honey can reflect various environmental factors, such as soil composition, pollution levels, and the presence of trace elements in the surrounding environment. Since honey is well known for its medicinal properties (antibacterial, anti inflammatory, and antioxidant effects), it is essential to characterize the trace elements that support these beneficial properties. Therefore, this project is crucial not only for investigating the quality and authenticity of honey but also for assessing its potential health benefits and risks. The proposed methodology, based on the ED-XRF technique, has many advantages. It is a non-destructive approach that provides precise and rapid qualitative and quantitative analysis of a wide range of elements. Therefore, ED-XRF is an ideal tool for exploring the elemental composition of honey.
Tasks:
- Analysis of literature data regarding the use of the ED XRF technique and the multielement composition of honey.
- Development of qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze honey samples, based on the ED-XRF technique.
- Analysis of honey samples from different regions and sources.
- Statistical analysis of the obtained results. 5. Interpretation of the results and formulation of appropriate conclusions based on the project findings.
| Supervisor: | Dr Agata Światły-Błaszkiewicz |
| Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry | |
| Internship period: | August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | Pharmaceutical Sciences |
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Cross-National Analysis of Visual and Textual Elements in Adapted Cancer Prevention Materials: Examining Communication Accessibility Standards for Populations with Intellectual Disabilities
Aims: Short Description of the Project: This research project examines the adaptation and presentation of cancer prevention information for people with intellectual disabilities across major English-speaking healthcare systems. The study focuses on analyzing visual and simplified communication strategies in health education materials, with particular attention to breast and colorectal cancer prevention. By examining materials from leading healthcare organizations in the UK, USA, and Australia, this research aims to identify best practices and innovative approaches in making cancer prevention information accessible to vulnerable populations.
Main Research Aims:
- To identify current practices in visual communication of cancer prevention messages for people with intellectual disabilities
- To compare approaches across different healthcare systems and organizations
- To evaluate the adherence of existing materials to accessibility guidelines and health literacy principles
- To develop evidence-based recommendations for creating accessible health education materials
- Systematic collection of cancer prevention materials from nine pre-selected healthcare organizations across three countries
- Development and application of a comprehensive coding framework to analyze visual elements, text complexity, and information organization
- Assessment of materials against established accessibility guidelines and health literacy standards.
- Cross-country comparison of communication approaches and strategies
- Synthesis of findings and identification of best practices
- This 4-week research internship offers hands-on experience in conducting systematic content analysis of health education materials. The intern will learn to develop and apply coding frameworks, conduct cross-national comparative analysis, and evaluate communication materials using established research protocols. Through direct involvement in an academic research project, they will gain practical experience in data collection, systematic documentation, and preparation of findings for academic publication.
| Supervisor: | Oliwia Kowalczyk, PhD (oliwia.kowalczyk[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Department of Oncology | |
| Internship period: | August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | health Sciences |
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Temporal Analysis of Message Framing and Communication Strategies in Breast Cancer Prevention Campaigns: A Longitudinal Study of Public Health Communication Evolution
Aims: Short Description of the Project: This longitudinal research investigates the evolution of communication strategies employed in breast cancer prevention campaigns across three distinct temporal periods. The study applies content analysis methodology to examine transformations in message framing, risk communication approaches, and visual representation strategies. Through systematic analysis of archived campaign materials from major cancer organizations, this research explores how scientific advancements, sociocultural shifts, and digital transformation have influenced public health communication paradigms in breast cancer prevention messaging.
Main Research Aims:
- To examine the temporal progression of message framing methodologies in breast cancer prevention campaigns
- To identify significant transitions in visual and narrative communication strategies
- To analyze the integration of digital communication modalities over time
Main Research Tasks:
- Systematic collection and analysis of breast cancer prevention campaign materials
- Examination of changes in message framing, risk communication strategies, and visual representation
- Identification and documentation of key transitions in prevention messaging approaches
- Development of analytical framework demonstrating evolution of health communication strategies
| Supervisor: | Oliwia Kowalczyk, PhD (oliwia.kowalczyk[at]cm.umk.pl) |
| Department of Oncology | |
| Internship period: | August 2025 |
| Scientific discipline: | Health Sciences |
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