“Roots of the Future” Scholarship for Dr Mateusz Pękacz
19 06 2026
Dr Mateusz Pękacz from the Pathogen Immunobiology Research Group at the Institute of Experimental Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, has been selected as a laureate of the second edition of the “Roots of the Future – Science” scholarship programme.
Dr Mateusz Pękacz holds a PhD in veterinary sciences, and his research focuses on the nematode Dirofilaria repens. This mosquito-borne parasite causes dirofilariasis, a disease that is becoming an increasing challenge for both human and animal health. His work combines parasitology, immunology and molecular biology.
Dr Pękacz’s doctoral dissertation, entitled “Investigation of the molecular interactions of the Dr20/22 antigen of Dirofilaria repens in the parasite–host system and identification of a new diagnostic tool for subcutaneous dirofilariasis”, examined both the mechanisms by which the parasite interacts with its host and the potential use of the findings in diagnostics. As part of his doctoral research, he worked on new tools for detecting D. repens infections in dogs, which may improve the diagnosis and monitoring of dirofilariasis.
The solutions developed through this research may significantly improve the monitoring of dirofilariasis and support efforts to limit the spread of the disease in Poland and other European countries. More effective detection of infections in animals is also important for human health, as D. repens is a parasite capable of infecting both animals and humans.
Dr Pękacz’s current research interests focus on the immunomodulatory properties of D. repens proteins, namely their ability to influence the functioning of the host’s immune cells. A better understanding of these mechanisms may provide a basis for developing new methods of preventing dirofilariasis, including a potential vaccine against the disease.
The “Roots of the Future – Science” programme supports young researchers conducting important and innovative research in the biological and environmental sciences. The second edition received 252 applications from research institutions across Poland. The programme committee selected five laureates, each of whom will receive a scholarship of PLN 20,000.
We warmly congratulate Dr Mateusz Pękacz and wish him continued scientific success, further development of his research and the opportunity to pursue new ambitious projects!
More information about the programme: https://korzenieprzyszlosci.pl/