“From February 18 to March 18, 2024, I participated in a one-month secondment program at the Genetic Lab (GL) in the city of Bucharest. During this period, I received extensive practical training in the field of various genetic principles and their integration into the laboratory diagnostics. The training provided at the Genetic Lab was meticulously tailored to facilitate my acquisition of hands-on experience focused on molecular diagnostic methods. The main objectives of this secondment were: to become familiar with laboratory safety protocols and procedures, as well as ISO laboratory standards; to provide comprehensive theoretical knowledge of genetic principles, techniques, and methodologies; and to provide hands-on skills in various genetic laboratory techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR amplification, DNA probe hybridization technique, gel electrophoresis, and next-generation sequencing analysis.
I obtained my Master’s degree and PhD at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Pharmacy, at the Department of Medical Biochemistry. This was the first time I spent an extended period of time in a laboratory abroad conducting experiments. Beyond the laboratory work in GL, my time in Romania gave me the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture, interact with the locals, and explore the beautiful city of Bucharest, Sinaia, and Brasov.
Upon joining the Genetic Lab, I was warmly welcomed by its members: Anca Munteanu, Dr. Florentin Nitu and Dr. Consuel Ionica. They gave me a comprehensive tour of the facility, explained all the techniques and equipment employed, and shared their knowledge regarding the principles of diagnostics. Dr. Florentin Nitu and Dr. Consuel Ionica also gave me an insight into the practical aspects and organizational issues of running such kind of facility. During my time at GL, I was engaged in the following diagnostic tests: paternity testing, HPV screening, HLA typing, gut microbiome analysis, genetic analysis of hereditary thrombophilia, detection of the DF508 mutation in the CFTR gene – cystic fibrosis analysis, genetic analysis of periodontal samples, NIPT, and pre-implantation genetic screening (PGS). Additionally, Dr. Ionica generously supported me in the bioinformatics principles of data analysis and interpretation of the results obtained.
This was a unique opportunity for me to integrate my academic background with the diagnostic applications of my previous knowledge. This was also an opportunity for knowledge exchange and possible future collaborative research projects.
Overall, my stay at the Genetic Lab proved to be intellectually enriching and professionally enlightening, providing valuable insights into the operational dynamics of the private sector.”
Dr Marija Sarić Matutinović, research associate and teaching assistant from the Faculty of Pharmacy – University of Belgrade

“ I spent a two-month exchange at the Genetic Lab in Bucharest. During this time, I had the opportunity to get to know all aspects of the work of this institution thanks to the friendly and well-trained staff. As the focus is on diagnostics for commercial purposes, this was an excellent opportunity for me as a researcher to see what it is like when reports with results are issued to patients. As my area of research is genetics, I find this exchange very useful as I was able to compare the way experiments are carried out with those at my home institution. During this time, I was able to improve my knowledge of isolating nucleic acids and quantifying them using real-time PCR. I had the opportunity to see how tests are performed to detect gene mutations responsible for cystic fibrosis, lactose intolerance and hereditary thrombophilia, whole genome sequencing, cancer risk assessment as well as other diagnostic tests such as prenatal testing and Covid testing. The Genetic Lab collaborates with doctors and dentists across the country. One of the laboratory’s main activities is the Paroident test, which uses buccal swabs to obtain genetic material from bacteria in the oral cavity of patients with inflamed gums. The equipment in this lab is truly impressive, ranging from fully automated sample preparation equipment to various PCR devices and next-generation sequencers. Thanks to experienced mentors, I also learned about the post-analytical phase of laboratory work, which includes both bioinformatic analysis of the data obtained and the preparation of reports for patients. Due to the responsibility that this type of work entails, I was familiarized from the very beginning with the standards that the laboratory must meet in order to carry out all these experiments. In addition to the professional development, I also had the opportunity to get to know the Romanian culture better, which is very similar to the Serbian one, so the acclimatization to life in another country went smoothly. A particularly useful experience was the meeting with participants of the CardioSCOPE project from Romania, who were guests in Belgrade in July 2023 as part of the summer school. This interaction not only contributed to the exchange of ideas and experiences, but also strengthened my connections with professionals in related fields and opened up new opportunities for future collaboration. Overall, this exchange was an extremely useful and enriching experience. Not only did I gain a deeper understanding of how genetic laboratories work, but it also contributed to my personal development as I learned about a new culture and made useful professional contacts.“
Sanja Erceg, PhD student from Faculty of Pharmacy-University of Belgrade