MBiolSci research internship: 6 weeks in Bangkok

Posted on: 12 November 2024 in November 2024 posts

Isobel Kynoch is a fourth year MBiolSci student in the School of Biosciences. This summer she spent six weeks in Thailand on a research internship. Here are the highlights.

Writing up my internship report has prompted me to reflect on the extraordinary six weeks I spent within the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University this summer. I was based within the Centre of Excellence in Systems Biology under the supervision of Dr Poorichaya Somparn. Her group focuses on plasma proteomics in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), exosome proteomics in lung cancer and microbiome proteomics following probiotic administration.

My research

Commonly known as lupus, SLE is an autoimmune disease for which there is currently no cure. In SLE the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs causing inflammation, swelling and damage to the joints, lungs, heart, skin and kidneys.

The aim of my project was to study SLE blood exosome proteins and miRNA to identify neutrophil signatures. By analysing the proteins, we aim to find biomarkers that can distinguish SLE from other autoimmune conditions, ultimately improving diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.

During my internship, I used software like R, Perseus, MaxQuant and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis to integrate the datasets and determine if the exosomes came from neutrophils. As it was a bioinformatics project, I sought opportunities to shadow laboratory work in preparation for my master’s project. Observing the proteomics workflow deepened my understanding and appreciation for the meticulous nature of the work. I also had the chance to work with data from the Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis and Mass Spectrometer. This internship has been invaluable for my career as a young scientist, exposing me to a new working environment in a different culture and further igniting my passion for research.

Experiencing Bangkok

Living in Bangkok was a completely different experience from my last three years in Liverpool. The city offered street food on every corner, a unique blend of temples alongside modern skyscrapers, intense humidity, and constant traffic. However, the bustling nightlife and the warmth of the people reminded me of Liverpool. Thanks to Bangkok’s numerous bank holidays and its ideal location, our MBiolSci group was able to explore Thailand, from ethical elephant sanctuaries in the North to the beautiful beaches in the South.

Another highlight was a sightseeing day organised by my laboratory group. We explored Bangkok, visiting renowned sites such as Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Grand Palace. This experience provided valuable insights into the country's rich cultural heritage and profound reverence for the monarchy. I will forever cherish this warm welcome to Bangkok and the laboratory group.

Final thoughts

I would like to thank Poorichaya Somparn for hosting me this summer, supporting me with my bioinformatic analysis and providing me with opportunities for growth - both personal and professional. I’m also grateful to her laboratory group, specifically Chat, Ing, P Saharat and Fadia, who were all so accommodating. Finally, I would like to thank Dr Helen Wright from the Liverpool Neutrophil Group for her continued support on this project and my masters project this year. I am excited to see what this year brings!

Overall, this internship was a transformative experience, and I am very fortunate that I was given the opportunity to go as part of the MBiolSci programme. I encourage any future MBiolSci students to take part in this internship as it will change your life!