As someone who has studied and lived in multiple countries, I’ve always enjoyed exchanging ideas with people from different backgrounds. Being in diverse environments has broadened my perspective on the future of life sciences and the valuable insights different people bring to the field. This is why I’m particularly motivated to join this forum—it offers a great opportunity to engage with leading scientists and talented young researchers, and to hear about cutting-edge research, participate in interdisciplinary discussions that drive meaningful discoveries. Also, as I plan to pursue a PhD afterwards, I see this as a valuable chance to identify impactful research questions and build connections. Furthermore, I was fortunate to receive an offer for a Master’s degree in Medical Sciences from HKU, and my current lab also collaborates with researchers in Hong Kong. Through these, I'm aware of Hong Kong ’s scientific advancements and dynamic research environment, which has further strengthened my interest in Hong Kong’s growing biomedical sector.

King's College London (my current project at KI is still ongoing, so I haven't asked for a recommendation letter))

King's College London

Jiayu-Cynthia-Xiao.pdf

I'm currently interested in research on neurodegenerative diseases and CNS injuries, with a particular focus on the role of perivascular macrophages in fibrotic scarring following traumatic spinal cord injury and ischemic stroke. My current project also explores potential interregional crosstalk in the CNS injury response. For example, whether injury in the spinal cord will induce distal effects in the brain. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing regenerative treatments against fibrotic scarring, mitigating secondary damage and improving recovery outcomes.

My academic background has provided me with a strong foundation in neuroscience, and through this project, I have honed skills in cellular and molecular neurobiology. Looking ahead, I also plan to expand my expertise by conducting a tumour-related research in my second master's project. Given the increasing intersection between oncology and neurobiology, I believe this direction will not only broaden my knowledge but also allow me to develop research skills applicable across multiple biomedical disciplines.