laboratories selection motives
Question: Why did you choose these laboratories and what would you like to learn from this program? (800 words max) *
This selection was motivated by my great interest in biomedicine, which is inherited from my mother, a passionate doctor. I found that I am not only in my element but also the most productive version of myself when studying my favourite issues. As a final year student majoring in biotechnology, I covet this precious opportunity to expand my knowledge, research skills and global network for my graduate education as well as future career.
After carefully investigating the program, I have been captivated by the focuses of Laboratory Animal Science, in which genome editing has been of my most significant point of interest. The tool's tremendous potentials excite me to take part in the short training program Mouse genome editing with the CRISPR/Cas9 system, which would impose my very first disciplines and skills to pursue further studies. The lab's vast successes in using CRISPR/Cas9 to create genetically modified mice (hairless, bicistronic Cre driver, hyperlipidemia and hepatitis, albino, embryonic lethality...) with the cutting edge of gene modification technology and experienced experts promise here an ideal place to study the technique. In addition to the achievement in creating a novel Cre-reporter mouse (GRR mouse) who emit the fluorescent signals (red and green colors) to indicate the Cre recombination existence in vivo, I am really fascinated by their ambition of developing Cre recombination atlas. The project will exert a profound impact on uncovering the current mysteries of gene expression. For me, their works were very compelling, rewarding and full of inspiration. If capable, I wish to additionally conduct Live Imaging of early embryonic development, whereby I could observe the stunning images of the biological hidden universe. Although I used to perform such kind of work at the 2018 Taiwan International Graduate Program - International Internship Program, I believe this would be a different experience.
In case that I am not selected for my first lab, I would like to carry out the rather homogeneous research methods presented at the laboratory of Molecular and Developmental Biology: Genome editing of zebrafish by the CRISPR-Cas9 system and Live imaging of GFP transgenic fish. I also found my resemblance to Professor Makoto Kobayashi's major interests relating to the anti-oxidative regulating mechanisms in zebrafish with the promising applications in anti-aging and cancer prevention in human. His team's effort in gradual clarifying the two seemingly conflicting functions of transcription factor Nrf2 (one as an activator for the defense against oxidative stress, the other as a villain which energizes cancer cells and promotes the proliferation of cancer) were heartening, and the unanswered questions are intriguing. This ten-day period will be so short that we would be more likely to perform the basic experiments rather than getting deep insights. However, I cherish its meaning of initiation and stimulation, especially when our home country's limitations in scientific research condition has restricted us to approach the novel technologies.
Apart from the meaningful lab activities, I really appreciate the multifarious benefits that the program was aimed to bring the participants. Firstly, the special lectures provided by the professors who have led their fields deeply and thoroughly would satisfy my intense curiosity and the questions that I cannot find their answers on books or the internet. Secondly, it would aid me to develop my international network with talented scientists from diverse backgrounds yet sharing common aims. That here we can meet and exchange our knowledge, experiences and ideas will possibly stimulate the innovative strategies and fruitful co-operation in the future. Thirdly, I consider this a good chance to explore the studying environment at Tsukuba University, one of the first-rate research institutions for pursuing higher education in Japan. Lastly, the cultural exchange events involved in the program's schedule would realise my dream of experiencing Japanese culture, which has appealed me for a long time. Meanwhile, I would be delighted to introduce my beloved Vietnam to my global friends and hosting professors.
With my strongest enthusiasm and sincerest attitude, I am desirous of this opportunity to lay my very first step to realise my fevered and prolonged dream of becoming one of the leading genome editing researchers in my home country, then spreading them to our latter talented generations, inspiring them to continuously work hard and reach far in science.
To further improve my application, I additionally uploaded my CV, which indicates my dynamism in academic studying, research experience, especially my intense extracurricular activities in different student associations and volunteering campaign, which would mark me a suitable candidate for this program. I am totally confident that I will work hardest and play hardest since I am in my highest spirit and readiness to experience this amazing summer program.
I am looking forward to sharing this experience with new wonderful international friends and making the program this year a colourful, meaningful and remarkable time for the participants.