Alumni testimonials
Woo Wai Kan
- CIEL Co., Ltd
- Gene Regulation Laboratory （FY2024 Doctor）
Gene Regulation Laboratory
My name is Wai Kan, and I am from Malaysia. I first learned about the Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST) in 2016. In 2018, I was fortunate to visit NAIST for about ten days through the NAIST Pre-screening Program. This was not only my first time in Japan but also my first experience with winter. During my visit, I participated in laboratory rotations and became acquainted with the diverse research being conducted at NAIST.
In 2021, I finally began my doctoral course at NAIST. The experience was both exciting and unforgettable, as I had to travel overseas during the COVID-19 pandemic and spent two weeks in quarantine near Haneda Airport.
I joined the Gene Regulation Laboratory, embarking on my journey in developmental biology using zebrafish as a model organism, under the supervision of Professor Yasumasa Bessho and Associate Professor Takaaki Matsui. My research focused on studying the role of a specific protein using a double knock-out zebrafish mutant. Throughout my studies, I gained extensive knowledge in developmental biology with the zebrafish model. With the support and guidance of assistant professors in my laboratory, as well as professors and members from other laboratories, I also acquired valuable skills in cell culture, mouse rearing, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and paraffin block sectioning.
Beyond my time in the laboratory, Professor Bessho and the laboratory members encouraged me to enjoy life outside of research and to explore Japan. This advice proved to be some of the most valuable I received, complementing the guidance I received in laboratory work and presentations. Making friends with students and people from Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, China, Russia, and Mexico, as well as receiving support from fellow Malaysians made my experience at NAIST even more rewarding, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
After graduation, I joined a cosmetic consultation and research company, where I conduct basic research and evaluate the effects of ingredients and compounds using in vitro tests, molecular biology techniques, and cell culture methods. Although my current job is not directly related to my field of study, the training, critical thinking, and skills I developed during my doctoral course at NAIST have made me a more adaptable and capable person. I believe that the training in NAIST help shape the skills and values of every student, including myself.
【May 2025】
