Crossing the Barrier: Science of the Brain, Work of the Heart | STEMtalk S2E4 Imola Wilhelm, MD, PhD

In this episode of Semmelweis STEMtalk, we’re joined by Dr. Imola Wilhelm, senior researcher at the HUN-REN Biological Research Centre in Szeged, whose work explores how changes in the brain’s vascular system impact ageing, neurodegeneration, and tumour development.

Dr. Wilhelm began her academic journey in medicine, graduating from medical school in Marosvásárhely. She decided to pursue scientific research and over the years, she has built a distinguished multidisciplinary career and has been recognized with numerous honors—including the prestigious L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Award, the Junior Award of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and the Bolyai Research Fellowship.

In this episode, we explore the real-world challenges and personal motivations that shape life in science today—especially for women and early-career researchers. Dr. Wilhelm shares her experiences with honesty and warmth as we discuss:
• What drew her from clinical medicine into neuroscience and vascular biology
• The dynamics of working in an international research environment
• Balancing research with family life and parenting
• Her work in mentorship, science communication, and science policy
• Highlights from her research exchange in Mexico and her role at the World Science Forum in Budapest

From navigating funding uncertainties to advocating for a more inclusive academic culture, Dr. Wilhelm’s journey is both grounded and inspiring.

Chapters
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:18 Guest introduction
00:00:57 From medical school to research
00:01:48 The beauty and wonders of research
00:02:21 From Marosvásárhely to Szeged in pursuit of science
00:03:59 HUN-REN Biological Research Centre in Szeged, Hungary
00:04:43 Importance of international collaboration in science
00:05:33 Exchange trip to Mexico
00:07:00 International hub in Szeged
00:07:42 The crucial role of mentorship through challenges and successes
00:10:45 The importance of perseverance
00:11:30 Science advocacy and the Hungarian Young Academy
00:14:30 World Science Forum in Budapest
00:15:29 Scientific communication
00:17:32 Researchers’ Night
00:19:05 Funding
00:22:26 Balancing motherhood in science
00:25:15 Advice to young girls and women dreaming of pursuing research
00:27:40 Outro



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