Dr Ondrej Kucera

Ondrej Kucera is an electrical engineer turned biophysicist. He studies self-organisation and dynamic behaviour in living and life-like synthetic systems, with a particular interest in cytoskeletal protein polymers. His approach integrates engineering, experimental techniques, biochemistry, data processing, and computer modelling. Ondrej has contributed to over 20 studies, including recent work on the emergence of structural memory in cytoskeletal composites (Kucera et al., PNAS 2022), myosin-independent contractility in actin networks (Kucera et al., Nature Communications 2021), and microtubule stabilisation by compressive forces (Li et al., Nature Materials 2023). He has received the Siemens Excellence Award and is a frequent speaker at international conferences.

Cytoskeletal networks

The cytoskeleton is a dynamic network of protein polymers essential for processes like cell motility, transport, and division. I study how cytoskeletal networks self-assemble and self-organise in response to biochemical, geometric, and physical conditions, focusing on the feedback loops that govern these processes. My research provides insights into cellular behaviour and has applications in both biology and the development of synthetic, life-like systems.

Microtubule lattice

Microtubules are protein polymers formed by tubulin dimers, which organise into a precise lattice structure, giving microtubules their characteristic cylindrical shape and functional properties. My research focuses on how the biochemical and physical properties of tubulin within this lattice are shaped by the cellular environment, and, in turn, how these properties contribute to shaping that environment. By studying the dynamic interactions at the lattice level, I aim to uncover how these processes regulate the biological functions of microtubules, offering deeper insights into their role in cellular organisation.

Photonic biosignals

I investigate biological autoluminescence, the light emitted by living matter as a result of radiative decay of high-energy by-products of cellular metabolism. My work focuses on deciphering the properties of this emission, debunking persistent misconceptions in the scientific literature, and exploring the potential of this phenomenon to reveal insights into cellular processes. I envision the development of a new generation of analytical and diagnostic tools that harness biological autoluminescence, with applications across various medical fields.

At SETU, I supervise and mentor students at all qualification levels. I also teach introductory and advanced modules in Pharma, Bioengineering, and Electronics. 

Previous Teaching Experience

• Université Grenoble Alpes, France (2021-2022)
• Charles University, Prague, Czechia (2017-2018)
• Czech Technical University in Prague, Czechia (2017-2019)