Losing a young relative to breast cancer profoundly impacted my perspective on life, reminding me of its fragility. This experience, coupled with my reading of Paul Kalanithi’s memoir, When Breath Becomes Air, ignited a deep reflection on the complexities of human existence and the intricate interplay between genetics and health. It became clear to me that even the slightest change in the molecular structure of our DNA could alter the trajectory of one’s life. This realization fueled my desire to explore the genetic underpinnings of complex diseases, particularly cancer.

Last November, I attended the Molecular Frontiers Symposium at HKUST, where I was inspired by the cutting-edge research presented by renowned scientists. The symposium featured discussions on genome editing, which further deepened my interest in CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Its potential to revolutionize the treatment of genetic diseases is vast, and I am excited about its applications in cancer research. The Hong Kong Laureate Forum 2025 offers a unique opportunity to engage with esteemed scientists and explore the frontiers of life sciences, including CRISPR-Cas9. I look forward to contributing to discussions on how genetic technologies can be harnessed to combat complex diseases like cancer, ultimately improving human health and quality of life.

My research journey began with a deep dive into the world of Human Complex Disease Genomics and Bioinformatics. I focused on the genetic causes of brain metastasis, navigating the intricate landscape of cancer genetics. In the lab, I developed protocols to uncover the genetic variants linked to brain cancer. Utilizing techniques like Inter-Alu PCR and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), I meticulously analyzed the genetic makeup of cancer cells. This exploration revealed the complex interplay of genetic alterations in tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, such as EGFR and TP53, shedding light on their significant roles in metastasis.

This semester, I shifted gears to the CRISPR project, where I delved into the fascinating realm of cilia genes. My contributions included evaluating knockout efficiency and generating CRISPR knockout cells. As I designed guide RNAs and produced recombinant plasmids, my admiration for CRISPR-Cas9 grew immensely. This groundbreaking technology holds the potential to revolutionize disease research and treatment, particularly in cancer. Its ability to make precise genetic modifications offers hope in tackling the genetic complexities of cancer. My fascination with CRISPR stems from its transformative impact on biomedical research, igniting my passion for advancing innovative cancer therapies and improving patient outcomes significantly.