Hi, it’s Lin again!
Welcome to my first blog post of the year—and the first in two and a half years. You might be wondering what I’ve been up to during that time. Let me catch you up!
I’m currently pursuing a joint Ph.D. programme between the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and Soochow University (SU) in China. For the past two years, I’ve been based at SU. My project has offered me a unique opportunity to experience and compare research environments across two countries, each with its own strengths, workflows, and lab cultures.
So, what is it like working in a Chinese research lab?
Beyond the routine experimental tasks, one of the standout features of this lab is its comprehensive capacity for conducting animal studies—all performed in strict accordance with ethical guidelines. I’ve had the opportunity to observe and work with a wide variety of laboratory animals, including mice and rabbits. Interestingly, depending on the specific needs of a project, researchers can even select animals based on precise characteristics, such as coat colour or genetic background.
In addition to lab work, the research environment here provides frequent opportunities to attend academic conferences and participate in scholarly exchanges. These events are invaluable for sharing findings, building professional networks, and exploring future collaborations—both nationally and internationally.
Outside the lab, work-life balance is also encouraged. My colleagues and I often take part in group outdoor activities like cycling around the nearby lake, camping, and barbecuing. These shared experiences not only bring joy to our daily lives but also help foster stronger team spirit and collaboration.
And the good news is – I have just submitted my PhD thesis! Onwards and Upwards!
Written by Lin Ma