Helix Lab Fellows, Class of Spring 2025
The Helix Lab Fellows, Spring 2025, come from five universities (Technical University of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, Aalborg University, Copenhagen Business School) and are collaborating with four companies (Novo Nordisk A/S, Novonesis A/S, Unibio A/S, Meliora Bio).
You can read more about their collaboration and motivation for becoming Helix Lab Fellows down below.
If you are interested in hearing more about the Helix Lab Program, you can read more here.
Alexander William Helsted
University
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
Company
Project title
Project Portfolio Financial Analytics
Project description
Novo Nordisk has invested in manufacturing expansion in Kalundborg on a scale that is among the largest in the pharmaceutical industry and Danish business history, with a short expected timespan to completion. The scale and complexity of the expansion necessitate a need for competent managerial control and decision-making to ensure the successful completion of the expansion. This involves managing complex engineering projects with interdependencies cutting across multiple stakeholders. Thus, the financial control of the portfolio of construction projects presents a significant management task, with a need to leverage financial and non-financial data and analytics to inform proactive decision-making. This project combines methods and models from Corporate Finance and Business Analytics to address the challenges of managing a portfolio of complex engineering projects.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
I was motivated to become a Helix Lab Fellow to gain better access to the network of industries and people in Kalundborg.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
The most exciting part of the program is to be a part of the community in the kollegiet and lab. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. The positive effect on my work and wellbeing has been palpable and it's exciting to think of what is to come.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
After being a Helix Lab Fellow, I hope to continue working with Novo Nordisk as a full-time analyst or by developing my research into a PhD.
Áron Karancsi
University
Aarhus University (AU)
Company
Novo Nordisk A/S
Project title
Insulin purification enzymatic synthesis: Investigation of reaction kinetics
Project description
In the protease based enzymatic synthesis involved in insulin production, two by-products are observed in the outgoing material sent downstream for additional purification, which lowers the overall yield of the process. A lower yield means both an increased unit cost as well as a higher environmental impact as more raw materials must be consumed. Moreover, the inter-mediate used for this insulin is in high demand meaning that improving the yield is desirable from the company perspective. To decrease formation of by-products, better understanding of the impact of process conditions such as pH, temperature, reaction time and composition is desired. Thus, in this project, reaction kinetics of the protease based enzymatic synthesis under various process conditions will be investigated to obtain a process with higher yield and im-proved product specificity, which will be key in increasing efficiency and sustainability of the process.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
Two years ago I was researching master’s degrees in Denmark, and I saw that Aarhus University had a news article about their collaboration with Helix Lab. This was really a small consideration back then, but when I started, I wanted to find interesting collaborations between academia and industry where projects focus on real world impact and potential benefits to society at large. The fellowship program’s apparent commitment to community building and development also really reassured me before jumping into this adventure. One could say that I came full circle with applying!
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
It has to be the unique combination of being challenged both scientifically and in terms of general project/collaboration skills. For the former, I need to be a bit more independent with the academic part, but I also feel assured that I have all the help I need and great facilities at the laboratory. As for the project part, I know I will need to work with many stakeholders and think outside the box to get the most out of my work. These two aspects make for an exceptional environment to learn so much!
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
Next year I will have to face the task of starting my career. For this, I hope I will have the help of the strong community here and the professional development I plan to go through during my project. My time here already helped me decide that I want to stay at one of the amazing biotechnology companies present in Kalundborg. I imagine my perspective will change a lot by then, but I always want to keep challenging myself, probably trying out different professional areas within biotech. I am sure that I will be able to use everything I learn at the Helix Lab to contribute in my own way to the future of biotechnology.
Bartosz Dulski
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Company
Project title
Evaluation of batch vs. fed-batch strategy for biomass formation
Project description
A wide range of industrial enzymes and microorganisms are produced based on fermentation technology. During a batch/fed-batch fermentation process, salts, nutrients and metabolic components change in concentration. These changes might be of interest, and investigation via intense analysis (elements, vitamins, organic acids, lipids etc.), on-line and off-line evaluation is required. In addition, a deeper understanding of the biomass concentration, quality and robustness due to the two different process approaches, (batch vs. fed-batch) might lead to an even more balanced culture, resulting in a more cost effective and higher yielding process.
The scope of this project covers all phases from investigation to tests, data acquisition, analysis and conclusions. The student will learn how the industrial fermentation is running, monitored and controlled. He will also learn which parameters could be interesting to measure at/on-line, and thereby get appropriate insight in the process.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
My motivation to become a HelixLab Fellow was the opportunity to do my master's thesis in Kalundborg at a large biotech company (Novonesis) and the accommodation provided.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
The most exciting part is the support you get from the HelixLab team, the various activities and spending time with other HelixLab fellows.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
After the HelixLab Fellowship I would like to find a job in Kalundborg and/or do a PhD.
Chetali Dhanraj Sonkusale
University
Aalborg University (AAU)
Company
Project title
Optimization of Membrane Filtration Process Coupled with Product Development
Project description
Unibio is continously improving their processes, and to make production more sustainable and economically feasible, Unibio is evaluating ways to valorize side-streams. The project revolves around working with a side-stream high in protein, nucleic acids and vitamins which are recovered by membrane filtration processes and can be used as feed and food ingredient. To reduce cost of production the goal is to optimize parameters of the membrane filtration process and improve product composition for increased product value.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
During my time at the university, I worked on two exciting projects and felt compelled to seek opportunities beyond academia. As an international student, I believe this is an excellent opportunity to collaborate with company and work on practical problems. Moreover, there are numerous biotech companies in Kalundborg makes an ideal environment to kickstart my career.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
In my opinion there are lot of reasons that is exciting to be a Helix Lab Fellow. Staying with other fellows who are from different educational background and working on different project makes it more exciting. Additionally, the opportunity to participate in company visits, attend tech talks, and engage in various social events adds to the experience, providing excellent networking opportunities and fostering connections with industry professionals.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
After graduation, my goal is to secure a position in Kalundborg or with a company outside Kalundborg that aligns with my interests. I aim to apply the skills and knowledge I have gained during my fellowship to contribute meaningfully to the field. Whether in Kalundborg or beyond, I am eager to find opportunities where I can maximize my potential and grow professionally, making use of the experience and expertise I've developed throughout this journey.
Estefanía Ibarra Salas
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU) & Tecnológico de Monterrey
Company
Meliora Bio
Project title
Lignin application in bitumen
Project description
About 10% of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of the transportation sector are caused by the construction of roads. According to recent studies, this amounts to 5% of the total GHG emissions in the European Union and about twice as much as the aviation sector. Production of bitumen is one of the largest environmental burdens of asphalt and renewable alternatives such as the plant-based polymer lignin are therefore being explored.
A life cycle analysis revealed that the replacement of naphthenic bitumen with kraft lignin (lignin derived from the production pulp and paper from wood) could lower the climate change impact of asphalt with 30-70%.
This project aims to assess whether the lignin produced by Meliora Bio is suitable for use in bitumen for asphalt applications.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
I am always looking for opportunities that allow me to grow both professionally and personally. The Helix Lab Fellowship promotes the kind of collaborative environment that I believe leads to meaningful and sustainable development, while also providing enriching experiences for learning and networking.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
The opportunity to address real-world issues and the potential of seeing a tangible impact from my research is the most exciting to me. I also enjoy learning not only from the challenges that come with conducting a research project but also from the experiences I get to share with the other fellows.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
After completing the Fellowship, I see myself continuing to contribute either directly within the local industry or by maintaining connections and seeking projects that facilitate remote collaboration. By combining practical industry experience with an academic perspective, I hope to foster a deeper understanding and application of the concepts and solutions developed during this time.
Hao Zhang Liu
University
Aalborg University (AAU)
Company
Novonesis A/S
Project title
Modelling and Energy Optimization of Reverse Osmosis (MORE)
Project description
Novonesis is dedicated to enhancing energy efficiency through a project focused on modeling and optimizing reverse osmosis (RO) units. This initiative involves developing a mechanistic model to assess strategies for meeting process demand while minimizing energy input. Leveraging real plant data, Novonesis aims to implement control schemes to optimize RO unit performance, contributing to sustainability goals and advancing its Digital Twin strategy.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
It all comes down to the amount and type of expertise I see at Helix Lab, at Novonesis A/S, and the potential the city of Kalundborg has. I view Helix Lab as a scientific hub that attracts some of the best talent from around the world, as I noticed the very first moment I arrived at Kalundborg Kollegiet: people from a plethora of nationalities sharing diverse worldviews, along with personal, scientific, and engineering aspirations.
Moreover, the rapid growth of the city of Kalundborg has also played a significant role in motivating me to become a Helix Lab Fellow. One need only look at the presence of major companies in the city to see how bright Kalundborg’s future is, and I want to be part of that journey.
Finally, as an aspiring Process Engineer, I find it exciting to know that I can combine Computer Science and Chemical Engineering in my master’s thesis, especially given that the world will increasingly be driven by data and information manipulation in the near future. This is something that my project work at Novonesis A/S is allowing me to thrive in, reinforced by the fact that I am currently working in an on-site industrial setting.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
To me, the most exciting part is the opportunities that Helix Lab—and, by extension, Kalundborg—offers me as a soon-to-graduate master’s student. I believe that the project I am working on has huge potential for my future career, and I have found astonishing support at Helix Lab in the form of technical expertise, industry networking, infrastructure, mentoring, and social gatherings. I would like to emphasize this last point, as all of the Helix Lab fellows are both passionate about a wide range of subjects (not just those related to science or engineering) and down-to-earth, which makes fruitful conversations possible.
Additionally, I want to highlight the types of skill sets that this fellowship is encouraging me to develop, whether technical, social, or cultural. I believe these skills will enable me to thrive in my future industrial or academic career.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
After my fellowship, I would love to apply the skill set I will develop during this period in either an academic or industrial setting. Following my time at Helix Lab, I envision myself being well-versed in skills that are highly sought after by society. I would be eager to contribute to the development of either the city of Kalundborg or the broader society of Denmark. Both the city and the country offer a wealth of opportunities, both nationally and internationally.
Kasper Jul Lassen
University
Aalborg University (AAU)
Company
Novonesis A/S
Project title
Modelling framework for an Ultrafiltration Unit using Physics Informed Neural Network
Project description
This project develops a Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) model for an ultrafiltration unit, aiming to optimize membrane flux and reduce energy in enzyme recovery. Unlike traditional dynamic models, which struggle with phenomena like fouling, and standard neural networks, which lack physical consistency, PINNs integrate domain knowledge and machine learning. They enforce physical laws, ensuring data-driven yet physically accurate predictions. Advantages include robust predictions of fouling, adaptability, and physical interpretability, enhancing decision-making and operational efficiency.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
I see it as a great opportunity for me to make contacts in the industry and a chance to meet other fellow students and make new friends. Many of the fellowships programs also sounds interesting and I would like to participate in them. Lastly, moving to Kalundborg will allow me to see a new part of Denmark that I have never experienced before.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
One area I am very excited about is to work in close collaboration with Novonesis and to get a real feeling for how it is to work at a real company. I also really excite abut all the resources the helix lab fellows provides like access to labs and weekly events that helps develop knowledge about the city, and the people and companies with in it.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
I'm interested in exploring the potential of the Kalundborg industry following my graduation. The innovative and sustainable practices implemented through programs like the Kalundborg Symbiosis align closely with my professional interests and career goals and are something I can see myself being a part of.
María Teresa Santos Ramírez
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU) & Tecnológico de Monterrey
Company
Meliora Bio
Project title
Enzymatic saccharification of wheat straw
Project description
Bioconversion of lignocellulosic materials such as wheat straw includes an enzymatic saccharification step (also known as enzymatic hydrolysis). The biorefinery Meliora Bio produces prebiotic dietary fiber, lignin and ethanol from wheat straw. The industrial enzyme cocktails that are used in this process represents a very significant cost and are also a significant contributor to the overall greenhouse gas emission. It is therefore important for business to optimize the use of the enzymes in order to improve the balance sheet.
The focus of this project is to evaluate the usefulness of a published enzyme assay (which has been designed to assess the efficiency of enzyme cocktails for saccharification in a lignocellulosic biorefinery setting) for application on hydrolysis of Meliora Bio's wheat straw. We also want to understand what is the effect of wheat straw batch to batch variation on the saccharification efficiency (enzymes efficiency to release glucose from wheat straw).
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
Helix Lab offers a unique and valuable opportunity to bridge academia and the biotech industry in a rapidly growing industrial hub. My motivation was to take my research beyond the lab and work on a project with real-world applications in the industry. Additionally, the chance to collaborate with experts, learn from talented peers, and build a strong professional network was a major driving force.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
Being a Helix Lab Fellow is an incredible experience because the program integrates academic, professional, and social development. The weekly activities, talks, and events provide a dynamic learning environment, and as an international student, this experience pushes me beyond my comfort zone. It challenges me to adapt, improve my communication skills, and immerse myself in a new culture. The opportunity to interact with other fellows from diverse backgrounds and learn from their perspectives makes the experience even more enriching.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
I am confident that this fellowship will provide me with valuable knowledge and skills to launch my career in the biotech industry. The exposure to leading companies and industry professionals will open doors to exciting career opportunities worldwide. More importantly, I have formed meaningful connections with talented fellows whom I can now call friends. I have already fallen in love with Denmark and Kalundborg, and I would love to find a job here that allows me to continue growing professionally while contributing to meaningful advancements in biotechnology.
Ruben Lago Losada
University
Aalborg University (AAU)
Company
Novonesis A/S
Project title
Organic Matter Utilization for Electro-Methanogenesis Application (OMEGA)
Project Description
The integration of Microbial Electrolysis Cells (MECs) and Anaerobic Digestion (AD) systems enhances methane yield from wastewater. MECs use electroactive bacteria to breakdown organic compounds, producing hydrogen, while AD relies on microbial decomposition to produce methane. Integrating MEC and AD leads to electro-methanogenesis (EMG) systems, enhancing methane production and overall treatment efficiency. EMGs offer a solution for green hydrogen supply and have moderate CAPEX and low OPEX, making them cost-effective. The project entails conducting a feasibility study in a laboratory setting using industrial wastewater from Novonesis. It also presents an opportunity to extract value from organic waste streams which otherwise remain untapped.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
My motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow comes from the unique opportunity to connect academic research with real-world industry challenges. Additionally, having the chance to be immersed daily in one of the world’s largest biotechnological hubs is an experience no one should miss
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
All the events and organized trips around Kalundborg bring me a lot of joy. Living in the Kollegiet with fellow Master’s thesis students makes the journey more collaborative and enjoyable. Additionally, the warmth and openness of the people in Kalundborg create a welcoming and comforting experience.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
Looking ahead, with the valuable experience I've gained and the professional network I've built during my time in Kalundborg, I hope to land a position within one of the companies in the area. This would not only allow me to further develop my expertise in process engineering but also provide an opportunity to contribute to innovative projects in a region known for its cutting-edge advancements in biotechnology and engineering.
Sandra Beatriz Castillo Castaleda
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Company
Novo Nordisk A/S
Project title
Investigation of sustainable water effluent re-use from purified water production
Project description
A typical process for the core production of an API
Insulin consists of three main stages: fermentation, recovery, and purification. The core production is typically supported by the utility process that delivers a wide range of raw materials to the core production, for example, purified water.
Purified water is used for product and solvents dilutions and for the cleaning-in-place processes. Potable water is the input to the purified water production system, where the water is being softened by ion exchange, reverse osmosis and electrodeionization
(EDI). These processes generate a water effluent that represents the 37% of the total water input to our Manufacturing 1 facility.
In the current state, the water effluent from the purified water production is first waste-water-treated on site then second, recycled to the Kalundborg Commune Water Supply Department (KCWSD). Extending the limits of the process is the re-use, sustainably, of the effluent, which should be investigated
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
My dream has always been to work in a large-scale production environment. One of my main motivations for joining the Helix Lab was the opportunity to engage directly with the industry in Kalundborg, gaining hands-on experience, networking and learning from experts in the field.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
Beyond the professional growth, the being a Fellow offers invaluable personal and social benefits. The connections and friendships formed throughout the process make the thesis journey more enjoyable. Being part of a talented and diverse group, where we continuously exchange knowledge and support each other, has strengthened my critical thinking skills. Additionally, the guidance and encouragement from the Helix Lab team create a supportive environment that boosts our confidence and helps us navigate challenges with multiple perspectives.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
I believe that being a Helix Lab Fellow has already had a significant impact on my personal and professional development, and I am confident it will open many doors for my future career. I hope to stay in the Kalundborg area and contribute to one of the companies in the region.
Sofia Stratinaki
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Company
Novo Nordisk A/S
Project title
Exploration of membrane technology for removal of organic solvent and enzyme reduction
Project description
A typical process for the core production of an API consists of three main stages: fermentation, recovery and purification.
In the purification section chromatography is a widely used technology due to its ability to effectively remove impurities. However for some of the processes the technology is also used for fx changing solvent or reducing enzyme content from a previous step. For these types of tasks membrane technology has shown potential for having an as good or better performance without consuming resources such as solvent or resin. It would be possible to test the products sensitivity to fx: incoming material composition or different types of membranes, and what impact the hange in technology could have on the next purification step.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
My motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow was due to various factors. First, I was eager to be part of a vibrant community of students, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. The opportunity to work closely with world-renowned industries and apply the scientific knowledge I gained at university was another key driver. Additionally, returning to Kalundborg after living in the city for five years and witnessing its evolution was something I looked forward to. Lastly, the chance to work in a leading pharmaceutical company that delivers half of the world’s insulin was an incredible opportunity to contribute to impactful research in the healthcare sector.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
The most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow is the chance to connect with other students through various activities each week. Being part of a team at Novo Nordisk is also great, as they support and guide you throughout the project while including you in different activities. It is interesting to learn about the projects other fellows are working on and to be part of a community that shares knowledge and experiences. The combination of teamwork, networking, and working on meaningful research makes this experience truly valuable.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
After being a Helix Lab Fellow, I see many exciting opportunities for my future. I look forward to continuing being part of the Helix Lab community and contribute to its network. The experience also opens doors for potential career opportunities in Kalundborg, especially in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. Working closely with a global company like Novo Nordisk has given me valuable insights into the industry, which could lead to future job opportunities.
Wenxin Yang
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Company
Novo Nordisk A/S
Project title
Characterization of an industrial pharmaceutical precipitation process through experimental exploration of process parameters
Project description
A typical process for the core production of an API consists of three main stages: fermentation, recovery and purification. In the recovery step after removal of cells and initial up concentration the product is precipitated to isolate it further and prepare it for
storage. In the current state, this precipitation has varied performance and the exact resulting particle distribution as well as sensitivity to upstream changes are not fully understood. The opportunity to build deeper process knowledge and to find the optimal operating
conditions for this step should be investigated. In lab scale it will be possible to gain a deeper level of understanding of ideal process
conditions and the total operating space, as well as to examine how the precipitation develops over time. Which can assist in optimizing and improving the overall yield of the process.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
From the beginning of my academic journey, I have been eager to gain hands-on experience through collaboration with industry. When I learned about the Helix Lab during a public presentation at DTU, I was thrilled by the opportunity it offered to work closely with industry experts. This opportunity aligns perfectly with my passion, and I have been eagerly anticipating the chance to become part of the Helix Lab community.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
The most exciting aspect of being a Helix Lab Fellow is the unique combination of industrial and academic experiences it provides. Not only do I have the opportunity to live and learn alongside many talented Fellows, but I also get to engage directly with real-world production processes.
This hands-on experience allows me to learn from professionals and see how theoretical knowledge is applied in practice, which continually sparks my curiosity and inspires new ideas. If I can help with contribute to solving production challenges, thereby benefiting a larger number of patients, it would give me an immense sense of fulfillment.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
As a Helix Lab Fellow, I will gain solid, hands-on knowledge of pharmaceutical production, bringing me one step closer to my dream of becoming a process engineer in the industry.
Beyond that, Helix Lab provides a great platform to connect with experienced professionals from various backgrounds, offering invaluable support when tackling complex production challenges. More importantly, I have met many intelligent and warm-hearted fellows, forming meaningful friendships that I will cherish for years to come.
This experience as a Helix Fellow will not only be a milestone in my career but also a transformative journey that shapes both my professional and personal growth.