Remembering Agnieszka

Dr Agnieszka Magierecka was an exceptional scientist, colleague, mentor and friend, whose passion for research, love of the natural world, and quiet determination left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Agnieszka spent much of her academic life at the University of Glasgow, where she completed her MSci in Zoology, followed by a PhD in Ecology. From the very beginning, she stood out for her curiosity, her work ethic, and her ability to think deeply about complex biological questions. Her doctoral research focused on the transgenerational effects of chronic environmental stress, a demanding and ambitious project that she designed and ran largely independently. It involved multigenerational fish breeding, sophisticated laboratory techniques, and the careful management of large datasets — all carried out with remarkable attention to detail and animal welfare.

After completing her PhD, Agnieszka continued at the University of Glasgow as a Research Technician and later as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant. In these roles, she became a central figure in the laboratory. She led major research projects on fish physiology and behaviour, designed experiments, maintained complex aquarium systems, and carried out highly regulated procedures under the Animal (Scientific Procedures) Act. She was known for being meticulous, organised, and incredibly reliable — the kind of person others trusted completely when something needed to be done properly.

But Agnieszka was far more than a skilled researcher. She was also a generous teacher and mentor. She trained students and colleagues in laboratory techniques, supervised honours projects, redesigned undergraduate practical classes, and always made time to explain things patiently and clearly. Many students remember her as someone who made science feel less intimidating and more exciting — someone who genuinely wanted others to succeed.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Agnieszka stepped away from her usual research to work at the Lighthouse Laboratory in Glasgow, supporting the national testing programme. For this work, she and her team received a Highly Commended award at the Higher Education Technicians Summit in 2021, recognising their vital contribution to the public health response. It was a powerful reflection of her sense of responsibility and her willingness to use her skills where they were most needed.

Outside the lab, Agnieszka lived life with just as much energy and commitment. She was an extraordinary runner, completing multiple ultramarathons including the West Highland Way Race (96 miles), the Cateran Trail (55 miles) and the Highland Fling (53 miles). She volunteered regularly at running events and parkrun, always encouraging others with the same quiet positivity she brought to her work.

She also loved the mountains, having climbed 191 Munros, and travelled widely — from the Andes and the Caucasus to Japan, Jordan and Ecuador. These adventures reflected her deep appreciation for nature, challenge, and discovery.

Those who knew Agnieszka often speak of her calmness, kindness, dry sense of humour, and thoughtful way of seeing the world. She was not someone who sought attention, but her presence was deeply felt. She made difficult work easier, long days lighter, and shared spaces warmer simply by being herself.

Although her life was far too short, Agnieszka’s legacy lives on — in the research she carried out, the students she supported, the colleagues she inspired, and the many people whose lives she touched through her friendship and generosity.

She is remembered with immense respect, love, and gratitude.
And she is deeply missed.