Why I’m Running: Lukas Landegger is running Boston to help fund the ‘amazing research’ at Mass. Eye and Ear

Lukas Landegger.

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon runners share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston on April 16, 2018. Are you running Boston? Here’s how to share your story on Boston.com.

Name: Lukas Landegger
Age: 30
From: Cambridge
Bib #: 27376

Ever since I came to Boston in October 2013 to pursue my PhD research in inner ear biology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, I haven’t had the time to maintain a regular workout routine. I have prioritized my work, which often begins prior to sunrise and ends after sunset, and this schedule does not exactly increase my motivation to go for a run (in the dark).

However, prior to starting my PhD, I had managed to keep up a regular jogging schedule (e.g. while studying in Paris for a year). But I encountered my toughest physical challenges after graduation from medical school. As a military doctor in the Austrian army, I had to run around with an automatic rifle and extremely heavy backpack in 6 feet of snow in the Alps close to the highest military base in Europe (6,000 feet). Challenges like this taught me how to persevere in extremely difficult situations, and I think I will benefit from these experiences in the marathon.   

Following the defense of my PhD degree in September 2017, I am currently wrapping up several research projects. I am then planning to return to Europe shortly after the marathon. Since the research community here at Mass. Eye and Ear has helped me out so many times, I would like to use one of my last opportunities to give something back to them by raising funds for the amazing research that is happening here every day. In addition, I have wanted to run a marathon my whole life, as both of my parents are marathon runners as well.

Check out our entire “Why I’m Running” series.

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Editor’s note: Entries may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.