Scientific Malaysian Issue 3

Page 28

28

LIFE AS A SCIENTIST

Upon completion of my PhD in Medical Oncology at the University of Oxford Uk, I was confronted with the daunting question of “Should I or should I not do a postdoctoral training and if yes, where?” According to the US National Postdoctoral Association, a postdoctoral researcher is defined as an individual with an existing doctoral degree who is involved in a temporary period of mentored research and training towards the aim of obtaining the necessary professional skills in order to grow into a professional identity in his/her chosen career path. Hence, a quality postdoctoral training is a crucial Photo by Sven Petersen step in the development and maturation of a scientist, or at least I believe so. To reap the most out of my postdoctoral experience, of Sweden. This beautiful city is sometimes called I decided to spend a year or two in another foreign the Venice of the North. The vibrant city is spotted country to establish my research niche in the field of with an array of rich terracotta coloured buildings oncology. karolinska Institutet (kI) in Sweden was surrounded by clean glistening water and clear blue my choice of host institute because it offers plenty skies in the summertime. In stark contrast, speckles of opportunities for widening my network, thereby of bright lights can be seen lighting up the exquisite white wonderland in winter. With a population of just fostering potential scientific collaborations. nine million people, the Swedes lead a wealthy and Stretching over 14 islands and forming a part of peaceful life, thanks to its booming economy and the famous archipelago of around 24,000 islands excellent social security. lies the picturesque city of Stockholm, the capital Located just outside Stockholm city centre is the world-famous kI which ranks 32nd globally, 6th in

“karolinska Institutet (kI) in Sweden was my choice of host institute because it offers plenty of opportunities for widening my network...” Stockholm in the summer. S C I E N T I F I C M A L AY S I A N


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.