Dr. Monika Janeczko | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Habilitated doctor | The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin |Poland

Monika Janeczko is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in molecular biology and pharmaceutical sciences. Currently an academic teacher and scientist at the Department of Molecular Biology, John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, she has a deep focus on microbial pathogenesis, antifungal therapies, and biotechnological applications in medicine. Her research interests lie in understanding the molecular interactions between pathogens, particularly Candida species, and the development of novel therapeutic agents, including the application of nanoparticles and plant bioactive compounds. Dr. Janeczko’s academic career has spanned several prestigious institutions, and she is an active contributor to research projects funded by the National Science Centre of Poland. Her work is marked by interdisciplinary approaches combining microbiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology to develop innovative solutions for healthcare.

Profile

Scopus

Education
Dr. Janeczko’s educational journey is grounded in rigorous academic training. She earned her PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the Medical University of Lublin in 2015, followed by a Doctor Habilitatus in Medical and Health Sciences from Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń in 2023. Her academic background also includes postgraduate studies in philosophy at the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin and an M.Sc. in Biochemistry from Maria Curie-Skłodowska University. Her foundation in the biological sciences was established during her secondary education at the First High School in Hrubieszów, with a focus on biology and chemistry.

Experience
With over a decade of experience in academia, Dr. Janeczko has held a faculty position at the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin since 2007. She has taught a wide range of subjects including microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and biotechnological methods in pharmacy to both undergraduate and graduate students. Her teaching responsibilities extend to other institutions, including Collegium Masoviense in Żyrardów, where she lectures on infectious diseases and microbiology. Additionally, Dr. Janeczko has participated in various high-level research internships, notably at the Department of Microbiology at Jagiellonian University’s Collegium Medicum in 2022. Throughout her career, she has been deeply involved in interdisciplinary research and the mentoring of students in laboratory settings.

Research Interests
Dr. Janeczko’s research primarily focuses on microbial pathogenesis, especially concerning Candida species, and the development of novel antifungal agents. Her current work investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the antifungal properties of metallocarborates and bioactive plant metabolites. She is also exploring the potential of nanoparticles as tools for enhancing the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds in plant species with health benefits. Her previous work has involved studying the antifungal activity of naphthoquinones, flavonoids, and the development of new anti-cancer and anti-fungal compounds for clinical applications. Moreover, Dr. Janeczko has made significant contributions to understanding the evolutionary aspects of repetitive DNA and mobile elements in plant species, a crucial aspect of genetic diversity and adaptability.

Awards
Dr. Janeczko’s scientific contributions have earned her multiple accolades. She has received the Rector’s Award for Unique Scientific Achievements on several occasions, including in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2024. These awards recognize her ongoing commitment to advancing the field of molecular biology and her impactful research on novel pharmaceutical compounds. These honors reflect her standing as a leading scientist in her field, contributing substantially to both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in biomedicine.

Publications
Dr. Janeczko has published several impactful papers in peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to the fields of microbiology, pharmacology, and molecular biology. Her most recent publications include:

1. Janeczko, M., Skrzypek, T. (2025). Relationships Between Candida auris and the Rest of the Candida World – Analysis of Dual-Species Biofilms and Infections. Pathogens, 14(1), 40.
2. Janeczko, M., Kochanowicz, E., Górka, K., Skrzypek, T. (2024). Quinalizarin as a potential antifungal drug for the treatment of Candida albicans fungal infection in cancer patients. Microbiology Spectrum, e0365223.
3. Janeczko, M., Kochanowicz, E. (2024). Biochanin A Inhibits the Growth and Biofilm of Candida Species. Pharmaceuticals, 17(1):89.
4. Kubiński, K., Górka, K., Janeczko, M., et al. (2023). Silver Is Not Equal to Silver: Synthesis and Evaluation of Silver Nanoparticles with Low Biological Activity, and Their Incorporation into C12-Alanine-Based Hydrogel. Molecules, 28(3), 1194.
5. Kubiński, K., Masłyk, M., Janeczko, M., et al. (2022). Metallacarborane Derivatives as Innovative Anti-Candida albicans Agents. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 65(20), 13935–13945.
6. Golczyk, H., Hřibová, E., Doležel, J., et al. (2022). Migration of repetitive DNAs during evolution of the permanent translocation heterozygosity in the oyster plant (Tradescantia section Rhoeo). Chromosoma, 10.1007/s00412-022-00776-1.
7. Janeczko, M., Gmur, D., Kochanowicz, E., et al. (2022). Inhibitory effect of a combination of baicalein and quercetin flavonoids against Candida albicans strains isolated from the female reproductive system. Fungal Biology, 126(6-7), 407–420.

Her research articles have been cited in numerous studies, contributing to the academic community’s understanding of antifungal therapy and the molecular biology of pathogenic microorganisms.

Conclusion
Dr. Monika Janeczko’s work exemplifies the intersection of academic rigor and practical application in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences. With a solid foundation in molecular biology, her research has paved the way for novel therapeutic strategies, particularly in the fight against fungal infections. Her dedication to research and teaching, combined with her continuous contributions to science, make her a valuable asset to both the academic community and the broader scientific world. Through her ongoing research projects, she continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in her field, with the potential to significantly impact global health initiatives.