5 Minutes with our Industrial Trainee, Denzel

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Denzel Thean, and I’m 23 years old. I was born and raised in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. A state where you can find a mall on almost every corner.! I recently graduated with an honours degree in Biopharmaceutical Science from Dundalk Institute of Technology in Ireland. During my four years there, I explored various aspects of the biopharmaceutical field and gained invaluable knowledge from incredible lecturers and professors who are experts in their disciplines.

Q: What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in science and becoming a scientist?

Well, I didn’t pursue the science stream in high school but I’ve always drawn to science and understood how vital it is in helping people to survive. During the final year of my degree, I carried out a year-long research project, focusing on the expression of two genes in brain tumour cells. By the time I completed all the practical work and finished my thesis, I knew that research, especially using molecular and immunological techniques, was the path I wanted to follow to build my career.

When I found out that Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY) was located so close to my home, I was excited to learn that they had an opening for an industrial trainee. The research I had done during my degree closely matched the role requirements, which made it even more appealing. I also recognised that working with an organisation dedicated to advancing cancer treatment and prevention would be an incredible opportunity to learn and grow as a researcher.

Q: Over the past 2 months, what significant lessons or skills have you acquired?

Working with other scientists has shown me how important it is to share ideas and learn from different perspectives. During my time at CRMY, I picked up some new lab skills and got better at techniques I had learned during my degree, like analysing DNA and growing cells in the lab. Balancing several projects at once also taught me how to manage my time better, making sure every task got the attention it needed to move the research forward.

Q: What aspect of your internship made you most proud to be part of CRMY’s work?

During my internship, I had the opportunity to work with Dr Soo Mun from the Cancer Immunology & Immunotherapy Team on a project aimed at exploring potential treatments for lung cancer. Although it was early in the process, we were able to gather some promising results that showed our approach had potential. It was rewarding to be part of a team working towards a goal that could eventually help many people, especially those affected by lung cancer in Asia.

Q: Having seen the work being done at CRMY, why do you think cancer research is worth investing in?

Cancer is such a complex disease, and even if two people have the same type of cancer, their experiences can be different. That’s why investing in cancer research is so important. It helps scientists develop better tools and treatments that can be personalised to fit each person’s needs. The ultimate goal is to create a future where we can diagnose, treat, and even prevent cancer more effectively, no matter who the person is or what type of cancer they have.

Since cancer is such a heterogeneous disease, there will always be subtle differences between two individuals suffering from even the same type of cancer. Therefore, in every sense of the statement, investing in cancer research will not only be needed to build and utilize new models and equipment, but discover new techniques that can ultimately lead to a “future-proof” environment where the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer can be achieved seamlessly for any individual suffering from any type of cancer.

Q: Why do you believe Malaysia, and the world, need more young scientists now more than ever?

Science is always evolving, with new discoveries happening all the time. To keep up with these advancements, it’s crucial to have young scientists bringing fresh ideas and energy. They play a vital role in pushing the field forward, learning from past work and tackling new challenges, especially when it comes to diseases with poor outcomes. By encouraging more young scientists to get involved, we can help make these diseases more manageable and ultimately improve the lives of those who need it most.

Q: How would you encourage young people to study science?

I would encourage the young folks to study science by highlighting that it opens so many incredible opportunities and it gives you a chance to make a real difference. Through scientific exploration, we uncover the beauty of nature, grasp the complex workings involved, and find solutions to tough challenges. Activities such as hands-on workshops, science exhibitions, career exploration sessions, and educational outings can spark a passion for experimentation and equip students to make knowledgeable choices about pursuing science in their future.

Q: What aspect of your internship made you most proud to be part of CRMY’s work?

During my internship, I had the opportunity to work with Dr Soo Mun from the Cancer Immunology & Immunotherapy Team on a project aimed at exploring potential treatments for lung cancer. Although it was early in the process, we were able to gather some promising results that showed our approach had potential. It was rewarding to be part of a team working towards a goal that could eventually help many people, especially those affected by lung cancer in Asia.

Q: What would you say to young people who are unsure about studying science because they think it’s too difficult or unapproachable?

I’d say, don’t judge something before you give it a try. If science is something you’re passionate about, go for it! It might seem tough at first, but the rewards are worth it. For me, there’s no career more fulfilling than being part of a field that helps people battling serious illnesses. Knowing your work could make a difference in someone’s life is incredibly satisfying. I didn’t follow a science path in secondary school but taking the leap to pursue it later was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Q: What are your upcoming plans for the near future?

’ve recently been accepted for a PhD at the Smooth Muscle Research Centre in Ireland, where I’ll be focusing on how prostanoids can influence the activity of smooth muscles in the urinary tract. I plan to use techniques like quantitative PCR (also known as quantitative polymerase chain reaction or qPCR and is a technology used for measuring DNA using PCR) and calcium imaging to explore the activity of urethral smooth muscles and identify potential new treatments. My goal is to develop a less invasive way to treat urinary incontinence, which is a condition that affects both men and women.

Q: What are the achievements and life goals you’re looking to pursue?

I’m excited to continue developing my skills and picking up new techniques that I can use in my research. In the future, I’d love to be part of a well-respected organisation where I can contribute to important discoveries. Ultimately, my goal is to lead a team of passionate people who share the same drive to make a real difference in the world, especially when it comes to improving healthcare and making life better for those who need it the most.

Q: If given the opportunity, would you consider returning to join the CRMY team?

I really enjoyed my time at CRMY and the research I got to work on with my supervisor, Dr Soo Mun. If the opportunity arises and it makes sense with my career at the time, I’d definitely consider returning. The shared mission and passion among everyone at CRMY truly motivates me to keep learning and I believe in the potential of CRMY to become a leading force in cancer diagnosis, treatment and prevention in Asia.

Denzel is one of many trainees who have a deep passion for science and instil an interest in science subjects for the new generation.

If you share our passion for nurturing local talent to develop the next generation of scientists, please support us. Every cent counts and there is no such thing as a small donation.