2nd National Biomedical Science Gathering 2014

The 2nd National Biomedical Science Gathering 2014, organised by UTAR Department of Biomedical Science, was held and hosted at UTAR Perak Campus on 18 October 2014.

The event was attended by 70 Biomedical Science undergraduates including those from public and private institutions of higher learning; namely, Universiti Malaya, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Kuala Lumpur and Sunway University.

Head of Department of Biomedical Science Dr Phoon Lee Quen welcomed the participants and  congratulated the organising committee. “This event provides an excellent platform for biomedical science undergraduates from various universities to gather and to share knowledge on curriculum development, research and career opportunities in Biomedical Science related fields,” she added.

Organising Chairperson Tong Lui Siang concurred, “The theme for this gathering is ‘Embracing Peers, Exploring Heights’. It is also the message we’d like to bring to those in the field of Biomedical Science. We appreciate the coming of all together to have a mutual sharing of our experiences, knowledge and opinions regarding our field of study. Accordingly, a better relationship between all the Biomedical Science undergraduates can be fostered within Malaysia,” said Tong, who is currently in his final year.

(From left) Organising Committee Treasurer Lim Wei Siong, Tong, Event Advisors Kokila a/p Thiagarajah, Yuen Hawk Leong, Dr Phoon and Vice-Chairperson Ang Wei Fu

 

Tong presenting a token of appreciation to Dr Phoon

In a bid to shed light on fields involving Biomedical Science as well as job prospects, four speakers were invited to share their knowledge and experience.

UTAR Biomedical Science alumna Vinny Len talked to the participants about her career background, setbacks and efforts in overcoming them. “Along the way, there may be people who discourage and demotivate you, but you need to convince yourself that you can do it and you need to work hard and work smart. My career has been a learning journey for me. Be it doing extra work or helping my colleagues, I didn’t mind going the extra mile as I learnt more than expected,” shared Len who used to work as a sales representative and left to start her own company. “UTAR has provided a solid foundation for my career path. Remember to always dream big, work hard and follow your passion,” concluded  Len, the Shareholder and Marketing Director of Neoscience Sdn Bhd. 

Len sharing her career experiences

Also invited was Dr Chan Yoke Fun from Universiti Malaya, who delivered a talk titled “Biomedical Sciences: A Career in Research” which aimed to share with current students the perks and interesting details of being a researcher as well as the outlook today on Biomedical Science research. “You can be involved in a wide range of researches as you are in the Biomedical Science field. Contrary to popular belief, Science is actually highly social. Besides having the passion for scientific things, as a scientist, you need to communicate, be inquisitive and interact with people. And you certainly can’t do that if you’re confined within the lab all the time. You’ll also need to be determined. Experiment results may turn out to be negative but you need to constantly drive yourself to discover the reason,” the senior lecturer elaborated. Citing the example of countless Nobel Laureates researching on diseases, Dr Chan also inspired the participants to aim to be the first Malaysian Nobel Laureate. 

Dr Chan delivering her talk

Forensic Science Police in Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah, Ipoh DSP Chek U Koi was also present to give insights on the responsibilities of the Royal Malaysia Police Forensic Laboratory, his involvement in major crime scene investigations in Malaysia and how Biomedical Science graduates can be recruited as forensic scientists and officers. “In the police force, Biomedical Science graduates can use their expertise to assist in forensic research. Those interested are encouraged to apply and once you’re recruited, you’ll be trained as an inspector first,” Chek explained.

DSP Chek from the Royal Malaysia Police Forensic Laboratory

UTAR lecturer Yuen Hawk Leong, also one of the event advisors, presented a talk on “Career Prospects in Three Areas: Clinical, Research and Education. “As a lecturer now, not only am I involved in research, but I have a much greater role such as teaching, motivating and encouraging students who are future professionals and scientists,” said Yuen who previously worked as a research assistant as well as a medical lab technician. “You’ll not excel if you’re constantly in your comfort zone. You should try to explore more at your age to gain experiences and contribute to future improvements,” he said.  

Yuen presenting his talk

The gathering also saw the participants having fun through an onslaught of ice-breaking session, station games, exhibitions and performances by students from UTAR clubs and societies. 

The participants in various ice-breaking activities and games

“It’s my first time attending this gathering. It’s exciting with all the games and performances. However most importantly, I’m truly enriched by the series of talks. It allowed me to see a clearer picture of my future career path because I aim to be a researcher in the academic field,” remarked Universiti Malaya student Arif Bin Sajat.

This is the first time the National Biomedical Science Gathering was hosted by UTAR. The 1st National Biomedical Science Gathering 2013 was held at Universiti Malaya previously. 

A group photo comprising the organising committee, speakers and participants