Daria, how did your path to RECETOX begin?
I come from Siberia, where I studied ecology and later worked as an environmental specialist for Coca-Cola. My role involved monitoring waste management, water quality, and chemical safety within production. It was a valuable experience, but during maternity leave, I realized that the industrial world did not align with my values. I wanted to contribute to something meaningful — to knowledge and change rather than production. So, I decided to move toward science and began looking for research opportunities abroad. After several years, I contacted Professor Jana Klánová directly and, surprisingly, she replied and offered me a position. I arrived in Brno in 2021, right in the middle of the pandemic. The first years were challenging — my family couldn’t join me immediately — but with support from my supervisor, we finally reunited. That experience taught me perseverance and gratitude.
Why did you choose ecology?
I grew up in one of the most polluted regions of Russia, where black snow was normal every winter. My family worked in factories and mining, so I witnessed environmental damage firsthand. I loved biology and chemistry, and ecology seemed like the best way to make a difference. Initially, I worked in industry because of better salaries, but over time I realized that true impact lies in science — in understanding problems deeply and proposing solutions.
Can you explain what bisphenols are and why you study them?
Bisphenols are a group of industrial chemicals used to make plastics and resins. You can find them in plastic bottles, food containers, receipts, or the linings of canned food. The most known compound, BPA (bisphenol A), was widely used until research showed it can act as an *endocrine disruptor* — meaning it interferes with our hormonal system. Hormones regulate growth, reproduction, metabolism, and many other functions, so even small disruptions can have long-term consequences, especially during pregnancy or childhood. When BPA was restricted, industry introduced replacements such as BPS and BPF, but these seem to have similar biological effects. That’s why our research focuses on tracking how exposure changes over time and what new risks may emerge.
Our studies show a significant decline in BPA in human urine samples — which is good news — but a simultaneous increase in BPS levels. So we are effectively replacing one problem with another. We also see interesting seasonal differences: children, for example, have higher bisphenol levels in summer, probably because they drink more from reusable plastic bottles. Such findings are important for designing better consumer policies and public education.
You also work with PFAS — so-called ‘forever chemicals.’ How are they different?
Unlike bisphenols, PFAS persist in the environment for decades. They are used in waterproof coatings, non-stick cookware, and food packaging. They do not break down easily, which means they accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms — including humans. We find them even in remote regions, far from industrial activity. Understanding their behavior and impact is one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time.
What do you think about chemical legislation?
The system is too slow. When one substance is banned, another appears with a slightly changed formula — legally new, but functionally the same. This cycle can continue for decades. I believe we need a more preventive approach: companies should demonstrate safety before products reach the market. Science and policy should not work separately. We need open dialogue between researchers, industry, and decision-makers — otherwise, regulation will always be one step behind innovation.
You are also active in science communication. Why do you find it important?
Because science must serve people. Many policy changes happen only after the public becomes aware of the issue. If scientists communicate clearly — not only through papers but also through lectures, articles, or workshops — change comes faster. I enjoy teaching and sharing knowledge with students. Their curiosity and questions always remind me why this work matters.
What can ordinary people do to reduce their exposure to bisphenols and PFAS?
First, focus on what you use regularly and in large amounts — especially food and water. If possible, use glass or stainless-steel bottles instead of plastic. Avoid heating food in plastic containers. Reduce canned food consumption, especially oily products like tuna, since bisphenols can leach from the can’s lining into food. And don’t be fanatic — small, consistent changes matter. We can’t eliminate all chemicals from our lives, but we can significantly reduce exposure through awareness and simple choices.
What are your next steps?
After completing my PhD, I would like to connect research and policy more closely — to help turn scientific evidence into effective regulation. I still love research, but I want to see it make a real-world difference. Even if my work is just a drop in the ocean, I want it to be a drop of change.
And finally, what do you love most about being a scientist?
I love the excitement of discovery — when you finally understand how data connect or when your findings can inform real decisions. But most of all, I value that my work has meaning beyond academia. As a mother and a scientist, I want to help build a world where health and sustainability are not privileges, but standards.
