Hoi Ching (Christy) Cheung
What attracted you to the MRes in Biomedical Research (Bacterial Pathogenesis and Infections)?
Having completed my BSc in Biological Sciences at Imperial, I found my passion in conducting research, especially in host-pathogen interactions. The MRes in Biomedical Research provides the perfect opportunity for me to conduct two 6-month research projects. I also find the research environment at Imperial amazing in the sense of a good work ethic, friendly supervisors and interesting topics.
What specific aspects of the teaching or course format did you enjoy the most?
I enjoyed the opportunity to plan and perform experiments independently, as well as the assignments during the course, which I find helpful. For example, the lecture series in statistics and grant writing exercises are a nice introduction to essential skills as a researcher. Moreover, I felt accomplished when I presented the key results of my project in front of the whole department after 6 months of work in the laboratory.
How do you think the course will impact your future career?
This course gave me insight into how a research laboratory functions and taught me how to be a scientist. This skills are useful for me, especially when I am doing a PhD in Microbiology in Switzerland at the moment, and would like to pursue a career in academia.
Why did you choose Imperial College London?
I chose Imperial not only because of its prestigious reputation, but also because of the research environment. Imperial hosts PIs and researchers who are famous in the field and I would very much like to work with and learn form them. In addition, the central location of the campus provides the cosmopolitan lifestyle that I enjoy.
What did you most appreciate about your time at Imperial?
The lab work was amazing, as well as my supervisors and labmates. They are all so friendly and I am still in touch with my colleagues during my time at Imperial. Moreover, our stream leaders are very caring and attentive, which I am very thankful for.
What are you doing now? And how has the course helped with your career?
I am currently a third-year PhD student at the Biozentrum in Switzerland. I learnt to perform infection assays, cell culture, and molecular assays during my MRes and these skills formed the basis of my PhD work.