Sheena Chan: Stories and Lesson From iGEM Competition and a PhD Journey
Sheena’s undergraduate studies in life sciences led her to the world of iGEM competition through a synthetic biology course she took, and it also introduced her to the exciting synthetic biology application that fits with her vision and inspired her to pursue even greater goals. Sheena was a part of iGEM NUS_Singapore 2019 as the ‘mother’ of the team who keeps track and leads the diverse members of the team.
“Going back to school, every day, during iGEM competition wasn't a dreadful time, it was the kind where you go back and your team members will be there with you. I would say that we all had the same vision, so I find it very memorable to be in a team where everybody is so driven towards the goal .’’
“I find it very memorable to be in a team where everybody is so driven towards the goal.”
“Synthetic biology taught me that you can translate what you learn at the fundamental level into something useful.’’
The months of daily experiments have made her addicted to synthetic biology and driven to what’s more than she can unravel in this field, she then decided to pursue a PhD degree in synthetic biology with the same principal investigator of her time at iGEM NUS_Singapore, Associate Professor Poh Chueh Loo.
Sheena is currently in her third year of PhD and focuses on developing a novel and modular platform for yeast-based biosensor development. She looks forward to having this platform applicable to applications ranging from bioproduction screening to medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring.
If you are considering doing a PhD, perhaps you should read some of the advice from Sheena to those who are interested in embarking a PhD journey including how she can make her PhD life less stressful and more enjoyable.
Find what you truly care about in terms of environment, research, etc.
"For me, the environment is very important. During my IGEM journey with Professor Poh Chueh Loo, I felt that his working style is pretty aligned with mine and I feel very motivated to work under his supervision. PhD is a long journey. You may recall four years as short, but actually day by day, it can seem a little long. I think what’s important is to choose what you think is important to you. For me, it’s the environment, that's why I chose a lab where I have a good mentor and my colleagues are all nice”
Plan your time well
“Sometimes if you don't plan your time well, you can lose track of time that can be very valuable even if it’s just a month. Prioritize your list of to-dos and act quickly, especially if the waiting time (e.g logistic purchase) is not within your control.”
Peer supports
Always strive for teamwork, especially with co-workers. It is common to have a mental block when working; thus, just reach out to them and communicate with them.
“Sometimes when you talk to others, you get inspired so do reach out to people. By helping people, you’re actually helping yourself too”
To sum up, iGEM was a turning point in life for Sheena.
“I would think that iGEM opened my eyes to synthetic biology, and to what I want to do in future. I think my whole life will be dedicated to synthetic biology, that's the impact of it.”
