Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry University: Yale University

Name: Fung Chi-Hua, Annie
Institute: Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry
University: Yale University
Period: Summer, 2015

Global exposure in the basic laboratory environment

Before elaborating on my experience, I would like to start off by thanking Faculty and Professor Shulman for this invaluable internship opportunity as well as family and friends for their unwavering support.

Over the summer of 2015, I was incredibly fortunate to attach in Shulman Lab at Yale University, which has truly been an eye opening experience for me in terms of both academics and personal development.

During my 8-week internship period I chose to work with Professor Gerald I. Shulman, because I think his work on the pathogenesis of insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes is intriguing, clinically significant and most importantly, challenges our current knowledge on type 2 diabetes. The mechanism via which insulin resistance develops still remains a mystery, thus current treatment methods for type 2 diabetic patients target mainly the symptoms and comorbidities associated with diabetes. Investigating the mechanisms of insulin resistance on a cellular level can enhance our understanding of type 2 diabetes thus from a clinical point of view, could potentially transform the therapeutic target for treating diabetic patients.

The main bulk of my lab work surrounded around various widely applicable techniques such as qPCR, western blots, cDNA synthesis, RNA and protein extraction from tissue samples. Conducting experiments in the laboratory is like cooking in the kitchen – follow a set of instructions (recipe or experimental protocol) using the required ingredients and equipment to obtain your end product. Starting off as an amateur cook with limited experience I was capable of making decisions and running experiments independently by the end of my internship period, thanks to the care and mentorship of Max, my supervisor and fellow lab mates, all of whom have taught me immensely. Additionally, I also had the opportunity to involve in advanced experiments such as rat infusion studies, rodent tissue extraction, magnetic resonance spectroscopy and hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic mice clamps, some techniques which are unique to Shulman’s lab.

Asides academics, I treasure the chance to further develop my personal qualities and soft skills by socializing in Yale’s diverse community, stepping out of my comfort zone and learning to be independent. Professor Shulman, Max and colleagues at the lab are excellent role models that I look up to because after working closely with them, I have observed the qualities of an outstanding leader and caring mentor.

Upon arriving back to Hong Kong I realized how much I have grown both as a medical student and an individual within a short span of time, which is truly unforgettable. In the future I aspire to further develop my skills, experience and research interests to translate potential therapeutic targets for diabetes and other endocrine disorders into clinical practice to improve patient care.

It was a pleasure to work with Max, my supervisor, whom has not only taught me laboratory techniques, skills and knowledge, but also the characteristics and qualities to be a caring mentor and outstanding leader.