Name: Saha Riya
            University of Dhaka

Visiting Period: September 9^th (Mon), 2024 - September 27^th (Fri), 2024

Country: Bangladesh

Q1. Summary of the internship (Description of the research conducted, aim, introduction of lab, and things you learned)

I had the opportunity to participate in an internship at the Miharada Laboratory under the supervision of Professor Kenichi Miharada from September 9 to September 27, 2024. The lab specializes in investigating the regulatory mechanisms of stem cells, focusing on the proteostatic and metabolic controls that play a critical role in stem cell regulation and feto-maternal interactions during organ development. The main aim of my research was to understand how hormones affect the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). I conducted both lab experiments (in vitro) and animal studies (in vivo) to see how HSCs reacted to different hormone concentrations. This experience allowed me to learn various laboratory techniques like blood cell culture, FACS, and MACS. This has also improved my ability to think critically about designing experiments.

Q2. What did this experience do for you with respect to your specific career development directions?

The regeneration ability of stem cells has always fascinated me, driving my desire to explore this field further. As an undergraduate, I didn't have much hands-on lab experience, I didn't know how to design an experiment, but it was my dream to work with stem cells, particularly hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). I was eager to learn how the differentiation of HSCs occurs to form red blood cells and how various factors mediate this process. Additionally, I wanted to understand how these cells can be modified for disease treatments, such as in different forms of leukemia. This internship has served as a strong foundation for my research journey, providing me with valuable insights and practical skills that I will carry forward in my career in biomedical research. I have now gained valuable experience in conducting blood cell culture, FACS, MACS, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and, most importantly, handling mouse models. I am determined to focus my future endeavors on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs).

Q3. What did you enjoy about life at Kumamoto University (Kumamoto city or Japan)?

During my time of internship, I found the labs facilities incredibly interesting. The labs were well-equipped with top-notch instruments, and I was eager to learn everything I could. The lab members were very supportive and welcoming; it never felt like I was there for a short time--it felt like I was a long-time member. I'm also deeply grateful to Miharada Sensei for taking me to the doctor when I fell sick in this period.

As for the city, I loved the overall environment. Everything I needed was easily available. I also had the chance to try some local food, which I found delicious. Whenever I was lost in the city, the local people were always willing to help with directions. I visited beautiful spots like Ashikita Beach, Nagabeta Beach, and Kumamoto Castle, which I found quite captivating. I even bought some local items to take back home for my family and friends. All in all, the entire experience was truly memorable and enriching.

Photo1: Visited Ashikita Seabeach

Message to prospective students

I highly recommend the internship provided by IRCMS at Kumamoto University to students who are looking to pursue their future degrees in biomedical studies. This is a fully funded internship, with all accommodations, flights, and arrangements taken care of by IRCMS. The experience you will gain from this internship is top-notch and will greatly benefit your future research endeavors. It will also significantly enhance your CV, setting you up for a better career path.
If you aspire to become a biomedical researcher, this internship is definitely for you!

Photo 2: Shimotori Shopping Arcade