Stay : Department of Hematology and Oncology, Nagoya University
Period : 2015/10/19 - 2015/10/30
Benjamin Leow 研究室にてMy placement with the Department of Hematology and Oncology and the University of Nagoya was both enjoyable as well as an invaluable learning experience. The laboratory, headed by Professor Hitoshi Kiyoi, focuses on the effective treatment of AML, ALL and malignant lymphoma. This was well aligned with my current research studying drug resistance mechanisms in chronic myeloid leukaemia and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. The patient derived xenograft models and drug screening methods used by the laboratory were state of the art, and during my brief placement I learnt many new techniques. Additionally, members of the host lab were very welcoming, and I made many new friends who I hope to see again some day.
Unlike many laboratories in my home country, almost all the staff of the Department of Haematology in Nagoya were clinicians. This made my visit quite unlike other laboratory positions I have previously had, which have been focused on basic science. My visit included not only laboratory work but also an amount of clinical placement, which was an enlightening experience. I learned much about the current therapies used, as well as current clinical challenges, which left me with a much greater understanding of patient therapies, as well as leaving me feeling energised for completing my own research when I returned to Australia.
I thank the University of Nagoya and the Department of Hematology for their support, and the amazing opportunity that was offered to me during my stay!
