CUHK young researchers learn the ropes in translating research into reality in Toronto

Jiwon (2nd left) with other participants of the Summer by Design workshop at a manufacturing facility tour.

Two CUHK PhD students, Ms. OH Jiwon from the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mr. WAN Zihao from the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, spent a stimulating summer at the Summer by Design workshop held at the University of Toronto in July 2019.

Organised by Medicine by Design, a regenerative medicine initiative at the University of Toronto where the first discovery of stem cells was made in the 1960s, the 2-week workshop provided invaluable opportunities for some 20 high-performing PhD candidates and post-doctoral fellows from around the world to advance their understanding in translating and commercialising regenerative medicine research. Apart from gaining insights from industry experts, the CUHK participants also learnt about the dynamic life sciences hub of Toronto and built connections with emerging researchers from around the world.

The Global Speaker Series Talk allows the participants to learn about the interdisciplinary research on stem cells and tissue engineering.

With a research focus on cancer stem cells and immunology, Jiwon found the experience rewarding as she was given the opportunity to learn about commercialising regenerative medicine research. In particular, the workshop included a session to pitch industry members on the market potential of the technology. This had challenged Jiwon to step out of her comfort zone to get her research idea across to a diverse group of audience.

Zihao was determined to find cures through stem cell research for traumatic bone fractures, one of the major public health problems in mainland China. During the workshop, he shared his experience from bed to bench with other participants, and also received feedback for his initial clinical project plan.