Shunyu Huang's Journey in the MS in Biomedical Research Program
Meet Shunyu Huang, an MS in Biomedical Research (MBR) student at Tufts University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. As part of a tight-knit academic community in Boston’s biomedicine hotspot, Shunyu is gaining hands-on research experience and exploring novel areas in glycobiology. In this Q&A, she shares her personal experiences, insights into her research, and what it’s like to study at Tufts. Whether you’re considering pursuing a graduate degree or looking to learn more about the Tufts MBR program, Shunyu's perspective offers a valuable glimpse into both the academic and personal growth that this unique program fosters.
Why did you choose to pursue this degree?
"This degree could provide me with more research experience, be it hands-on experiments or scientific logic framework, and it would also prepare me better for a future career in academia."
Why did you choose Tufts to pursue your degree?
"Located in the biomedicine hotspot Boston, Tufts has robust science education, and its close-knit community makes it easier for introverts like me to thrive by feeling seen and heard."
What is the focus of your research, and what questions are you trying to answer?
"My research focus is related to understanding the glycobiology of the eye retina. I want to explore the lectin-binding glycocalyx composition on the mouse retina surface in normal conditions and in a disease model (retinopathy of prematurity, which is characterized by the abnormal growth and proliferation of retinal blood vessels in premature infants). I am also interested in a subtype of lectins, galectins, which specifically bind to beta-galactoside sugars and are regulators of immune and inflammatory responses. Mapping the galectin interaction partners in different cell types in wild type mouse retina versus diseased retina, I aim to understand the composition and role of the glycocalyx in disease, which is essential for developing therapeutic strategies to restore its integrity and function."
Describe your experience in the program:
"This program is well coordinated and organized. My experience in the program has been incredibly enriching and challenging in the best ways. We are clearly informed at the beginning of first semester of the timeline, course structure, and graduation requirements. Alongside working and taking classes with PhD students, this program gives equal opportunities for students to develop their interests and to obtain experience to better understand a field. Thanks to our Program Director, Dr. Peter Juo, the rotation selection and lab matching process are smooth and effective. I like how journal clubs are structured because they allow me to collaborate with my peers and receive guidance from experienced mentors. My PI and lab members from the Argueso lab are extremely supportive as I’ve grown as both a team player and an independent researcher."
What is your favorite aspect about the program?
"The unique lab rotation and matching system in a master's program that helps to familiarize students with academia early on."
What are some of your favorite ways to recharge outside of the lab or classroom?
"I love to check and try out different cafes in Boston. You will also find me in the gym exercising and de-stressing."
What is your proudest academic/professional accomplishment while at Tufts?
"Although I have not done a substantial amount of work in the lab yet, I am proud of being a quick learner and opening up a potential new research area in the lab."
What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?
"Tufts should be a top choice! Tufts has a welcoming and diverse community that promotes collaboration over competition. People have great relationships with classmates and faculty who are always willing to help."