Chasing Dreams: My Transformative Summer Research Experience at the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute.
The 06th Jul 2024 was an exciting Saturday afternoon when I left Uganda, embarking on my journey to the UK for the prestigious Summer Research Programme. This opportunity arose after I spotted an advert shared by Gideon Nsubuga, a former CRUK CI summer research student in 2023. The Narita Laboratory was looking for an emerging immunologist with bioinformatics expertise, and I immediately knew I was the ideal candidate due to my solid background in both disciplines.
Excited, I submitted my application and, a few weeks later, I was invited to a Zoom interview. Five days after the interview, I received the thrilling news that I had been selected as a summer research student in the Narita Laboratory. I felt incredibly honoured and grateful, marking the beginning of my anticipation and preparation to join the renowned Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute (CRUK CI). The opportunity to learn and contribute to cutting-edge cancer research filled me with excitement, and I eagerly looked forward to this transformative experience.
Orientation and Warm Welcome.
Anjellina with her CRUK Summer School Supervisor Dr Adelyne Chan
Stansted Airport on a Sunday afternoon, filled with excitement and anticipation for the new adventure ahead. I was driven to my residence, where I was welcomed with open arms by Fiona Gabrielczyk and my supervisor, Dr. Adelyne Chan. Their hospitality immediately put me at ease, setting the perfect tone for the exciting journey that lay ahead.
The Research Summer Project.
On a bright Monday morning, I stepped into the renowned cancer institute, beginning with an orientation and a tour of the facility. I was immediately impressed by the cutting-edge technologies and the pioneering research being conducted. Shortly after, I started the orientation to my summer research project, which focused on immune-mediated alterations in pre-tumorigenic liver. This project was particularly exciting to me as it allowed me to merge my interest in cancer research with my background in immunology and bioinformatics.
Throughout the project, I gained valuable skills in using bioinformatics tools such as UMAP, t-SNE, and the Seurat package. My goal was to identify features or genes that distinguish between tumour-promoting and tumour-protective immune cell subsets. By the end of the programme, I presented my findings at the summer research symposium.
Summer School students receive their certificates following a research symposium on their research activities and at the Dinner following the Symposium
A key highlight of the eight-week programme was the weekly Wednesday seminar series, where research group leaders shared their research work. The group leader talks were particularly inspiring, with some sharing their personal career journeys. Additionally, I received invaluable training on CV and cover letter writing, as well as guidance on the PhD application process. I am incredibly grateful to the Academic Development Team for organising these sessions. The eight weeks were transformative, deepening my passion for cancer research and accelerating my ambition to pursue a PhD in this field.
Beyond Science:
Beyond the scientific work, I took the opportunity to explore and enjoy Cambridge and London. I visited iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, witnessing the changing of the guards, and toured the UK Parliament (Big Ben), Fitzwilliam Museum, Scott Polar Museum, Ely Cathedral, and the London Eye. I also had fun punting on the River Cam with fellow students and experiencing train travel. My culinary explorations included trying Chinese cuisine and visiting shopping malls, and supermarkets around Cambridge.
A visit to some iconic landmarks: Top left: Corpus Clock. Top right: Fitzwilliam Museum. Bottom left: London Eye. Bottom Right: UK Parliament(Big Ben)
Dr. Maike de la Roche extended warm hospitality by hosting a delightful gathering for ugandan students filled with engaging conversations and excellent food. We concluded our summer research programme with a memorable dinner at Corpus Christi College, which provided a fantastic opportunity to meet and interact with inspiring individuals.
Punting on the River Cam
Future Aspirations
The summer research program has been the best experience of my life, offering me the chance to learn from esteemed cancer researchers and further fueling my dedication to this field. This program has significantly strengthened my foundation in cancer research, equipping me with valuable insights and skills. I am eager to apply these lessons in my career, particularly to contribute to advancements in cancer research in Uganda. This experience has also prepared me to pursue a PhD, allowing me to continue my academic and professional journey with a strong background in research.
Gratitude
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire CRUK CI team, most specifically the Narita Laboratory team, for their invaluable support and guidance throughout the time I was at CRUCK CI. The Narita Lab Team played a significant role in my research project by providing exceptional mentorship. Special thanks to Dr. Adelyne Chan my supervisor and the Group Leader Prof. Masashi Narita. I would also like to appreciate Dr. Maike de la Roche for her warm welcome to CRUK CI and for coordinating the UCI-CRUK collaboration. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Makerere University, where I am currently a second-year student pursuing my Master's degree in Immunology and Clinical Microbiology, for the invaluable knowledge and support I have received. This opportunity has been truly transformative, and I am grateful for the experiences and knowledge I have gained.
Lets beat cancer sooner!
Thank you
Anjellina Rukundo