A Summer in the Lab: Sean’s Global Research Visit

From May 21st to June 18th, 2025, Sean Chung, a medical student from Taiwan, joined the Spina Lab as part of an international research exchange. His visit was made possible through Columbia University’s International Collaborative Exchange Program (ICEP), led by Dr. Anette Wu.

“I’m incredibly grateful to her for giving me the opportunity to have this extraordinary experience,” Sean shared.

During his time with the lab, Sean explored a project on neuroendocrine transformation in prostate cancer, using single-cell transcriptomic data. He also shadowed other lab members as they conducted wet-lab techniques such as western blot and RNAscope.

While he had experience working with single-cell RNAseq data, the environment felt entirely new. “I treated this experience as if I were a full-time researcher,” Sean said. “The pace and lifestyle of being a researcher in New York was quite a shock to me.”

His reflections revealed a deepened awareness of what scientific life can truly feel like: “I used to think I had to work extremely hard to be a good researcher, but I’ve come to realize that taking proper breaks is essential for maintaining productivity.”

Sean also encountered moments of personal growth. Presenting in lab meetings, he explained, was one of the hardest parts: “In my lab in Taiwan, we rarely have full-group meetings… Presenting my data in front of everyone, especially in a language I’m not fully fluent in, made me very nervous.”

Another surprise came beyond the lab bench—learning how to make small talk. “Starting a conversation—especially as a non-native speaker and introvert—was difficult at first,” he said, “but by the end, I think I made significant progress and gained more confidence.”

The experience shifted how he thinks about the future. In Taiwan, he said, medical students often follow relatively narrow career paths. “Meeting so many people from different backgrounds—lab members, students, and doctors—really broadened my perspective.” He is now considering whether to become a full-time researcher or a physician-scientist.

“Our lab values hosting visiting students from diverse backgrounds. First, it’s energizing to expose trainees to new science and share excitement for our work. Second, it’s inspiring to learn from students coming from overseas and begin to understand their culture. We look forward to following Sean’s career and the possibility of future collaborations,” Dr. Spina shared.

Even after returning home, Sean has continued to join lab meetings when he can—something that speaks to the kind of collaborator he is. “I’m incredibly thankful for this amazing opportunity to see more of the world and explore my options,” he wrote. “Thank you to Katie and all the lab members—you made my study abroad experience both enriching and joyful.”

Written by Joshie Amposta

Original Publish Date: August 13, 2025