The InSPIRE program, launched in 2016 by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), is dedicated to fostering international collaboration among students from leading Asian universities. Through this program, students are provided with the unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge biomedical research in Australia, contributing to advancements in medical science and strengthening ties between Australian and Asian institutions.
This year, two Year 2 Life Science majors from the Special Programme in Science (SPS), Jonathan Mohnish Umaibalan and Wong Min Xian, were selected to join the InSPIRE program. They joined a diverse group of students from Singapore, India, Japan, China, and South Korea.
During their time at WEHI, the students were assigned to different labs, each with a specific research focus. Min Xian joined the Vince Lab in the Inflammation Division, where he investigated pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death. Meanwhile, Jonathan worked in both the Genomics Lab and the Naik Lab in the Immunology Division, focusing on cell barcoding and its applications.
Reflecting on his experience, Jonathan said, “This being the first time I’ve traveled so far from Singapore, the opportunity gave me a chance to expand my view of the world, learn more about the scientific community, and meet people from across the globe. It also allowed me to apply what I learned at university in a real-world setting.”
Min Xian shared his insights as well: “At WEHI, I had the chance to explore my interest in immunology, gaining hands-on experience with lab techniques and advanced biological equipment. I was impressed with the rigorous and meticulous research approach adopted at WEHI, as I worked and learned alongside researchers in my lab, contributing to the field of biomedical science.”
Beyond their research, the students also immersed themselves in life in Melbourne, exploring the city and sampling its diverse cuisine. Along with other InSPIRE students, they visited iconic locations such as the Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island, and Lake Mountain.
– Jonathan Umaibalan
