Kovac lab

David Profous

david.profous01@upol.cz

I embarked on my synthetic journey in 2015 as a student of Bioorganic Chemistry and Chemical Biology. My bachelor’s research focused on atroposelective cyclizations of benzimidazoles modified at position 1. For my master’s thesis, I explored the development of chiral derivatizing agents, which were employed to determine the absolute configuration of unknown alcohols and amines using ¹H NMR. Both projects were carried out under the expert guidance of Dr. Michal Kriegelstein.  As I progressed into my PhD studies, I expanded this line of research, transitioning from ¹H NMR to ¹⁹F NMR, while delving into projects centered on organocatalysis. This work, under the supervision of Associate Professor Cankař, is now nearing completion. Currently, within the group of Dr. Ondřej Kováč, I am focusing on the synthesis of natural compounds belonging to the Miaosporon family. Beyond the lab, I find joy in engaging with strategic board games, honing my culinary skills through cooking and baking, and broadening my horizons by traveling to new and exciting places.

Andrea Jeřábková

andrea.jerabkova04@upol.cz

I completed both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Palacký University. My bachelor’s thesis focused on the synthesis of phenalenone, while my master’s research centered on synthesizing new potential antiparasitics targeting the poultry red mite. Both projects were conducted under the supervision of Prof. Ing. Pavel Hradil, CSc. My scientific journey then led me to the Kováč group, where, as a PhD student, I am working on oxazole chemistry with the goal of synthesizing natural products. In my free time, I enjoy tending to my growing indoor plant collection, ballroom dancing, and spending time with friends.

Michaela (Tkadlecová) Hrabalová

michaela.hrabalova@upol.cz

I completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Palacký University in Olomouc. My bachelor’s thesis focused on the development and biological testing of new chronotherapeutics – specifically 1 or 3-deaza purines – using solution-phase synthesis under the professional supervision of Mgr. Soňa Krajčovičová, Ph.D. My master’s thesis then explored the development of a new methodology for the preparation of polysubstituted pyridines using solid-phase synthesis under the experienced mentorship of doc. RNDr. Miroslav Soural, Ph.D. Continuing my journey as a synthetic chemist, I am currently working on the (total) synthesis of derivatives of the miaosporone family. Outside of the lab, I enjoy exercising, going for long walks, and spending time with my family.