Pin Chen is a PhD student at the Zhejiang University, China, who is visiting us for a year to learn and explore more about microbial genetic manipulation techniques, under the supervision of our Postdoc Gaohua Yang. Pin came to us in October last year and he has helped out greatly with experiments, while at the same time learning the new techniques.

"I hope to learn some cutting-edge techniques and broaden my perspective in this field", says Pin about his internship.

Now, at "half-time" of the internship, we decided to interview him on his experiences of the lab and Gothenburg so far, and about his scientific aims.

How come you decided to look for an internship with our lab?
I have always been very interested in gut microbiota and eager to learn more about microbial genetics, particularly techniques such as gene knockout, cloning, and microbial genetic manipulation. This lab is well-known for its research on gut microbiota, which is why I chose to come here to deepen my understanding in this area.

What are your impression of the lab and of you new city?
The atmosphere in the lab is great—very friendly and collaborative! There are people with expertise in different areas, so discussions are always engaging and insightful. It’s a great place to learn and grow. Gothenburg feels very similar to my hometown. The people here are friendly and welcoming, and the city has a vibrant and lively atmosphere. I appreciate the balance between urban life and nature here.

Our research group is interested in reaching out to the general public and students in particular. How would you explain your research to someone who is not familiar with science?
As living standards improve, more and more people are at risk of developing gout. My research focuses on understanding the causes and effects of gout and exploring new ways to mitigate its impact. By studying this process, we hope to develop innovative dietary strategies to promote better health.

How come you choose this field of science?
I have always been very interested in human health. I enjoy the connection between science and the body, as it allows me to better understand myself and the way our bodies work. This personal connection drives my passion for this field.

What would you like to achieve with your science (for yourself and/or others)?
I hope to discover new insights through my efforts, even if they are small. As long as these findings help deepen our understanding of ourselves and contribute to human well-being.

Anything to share about time outside lab?
I enjoy learning how to cook. Since I arrived here, I’ve been experimenting with dishes from other countries, such as pizza and pasta. It’s a fun way to explore different cultures and relax after a busy day in the lab.

What do you do to promote a healthy gut microbiome and/or health in general?
I focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber and fermented foods. Additionally, I improve my gut health by enhancing my sleep, as the long winter nights here make it a perfect time to focus on rest and recovery.

Thank you Pin for all your hard work and for sharing of your pleasant personality! We are looking forward to the second half of you internship with us.