Zhijun HE: Undergraduate Courses in FHS Have Paved a Solid Foundation for My Further Exploration in Research

Enthused over the learning of science inch by inch

Zhijun HE mentioned that he was interested in biology and chemistry when he was small. Thus, he decided to study biomedical sciences in FHS of UM. He was well equipped with various experimental skills via his bachelor studies, and he became a member of Prof. Henry Hang Fai KWOK’s research team to participate in his research project when he was a sophomore. Despite the ups and downs, Zhijun has been relentlessly pursuing his efforts in his research work. In the spirit of perseverance, he eventually succeeded in obtaining the positive results of the experiments through adversity. In his third year of study, he participated in the International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition (iGEM), a top international technology competition focusing on synthetic biology. Under the guidance of the FHS professors, he and his fellow members won the gold medal. These valuable undergraduate research and competition experiences have kindled his love for research and inspired him to pursue further.

The most powerful stepping stone: Solid Courses

After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at UM, Zhijun continued his master’s programme, specializing in oncology at Tsinghua University. He aims to develop effective medicine for brain tumours that brings a better treatment for cancer patients. Zhijun says, “The undergraduate courses in FHS have paved a solid foundation for my further exploration and developed my interests in research. FHS provides many courses to cultivate students’ skills in conducting experiments, including cell culture, PCR and western blot, which can be applied well theoretically and practically. What I have learned in my undergraduate studies laid a solid foundation for my postgraduate studies.” In addition, Zhijun pointed out that all FHS research teams welcome undergraduate students to take part in the research work on top of their undergraduate studies. These precious research experiences can develop students’ experimental design and operational skills, sharpen their independent and critical thinking skills, which strengthen students’ research abilities.

Research is my amusement

Zhijun was so grateful for Prof. Kwok who has provided him many research opportunities, encouraged him to enjoy the process of conducting experiments, and nurtured his ongoing love for scientific research. These all are his lifelong benefits. “What I gained from my undergraduate studies has built transferable skills for my research competency,” says Zhijun. “The ease of experimental design and operations allows me to focus more on the content of studies.” Zhijun encouraged the current students to participate in research after class, which can help them develop a lasting love for research in such a process of devoting efforts and cultivating interests.