The art of two sciences
“ALONG with the engaging lectures, the lab and practical sessions were by far the most exciting part of my time pursuing the BSc (Hons) Biology with Psychology at Sunway University,” said Calvin Goh Bok Sun, who completed the programme last year.
“We were always given the chance to apply what we learned to hands-on situations. Some memorable moments include dissecting real mammalian brains and making microscopic studies of them, studying bacteria populations on body parts and in common public spaces, trying out physiological measurements on each other in class and doing social experiments to understand fascinating and often humorous human behaviour.
“The knowledge and experience I gained are priceless,” added Goh, whose interest in biological psychology started after he read the biography of Charles Whitman.
Whitman was a model student and an exemplary member of the US Marine in his early years.
But one day in 1966, he murdered his mother and wife before going on to kill 16 students in a shooting rampage.
Goh said, “One of the most fascinating elements I discovered was the relationship between gut microbiota – the resident microorganisms in the intestines and brain function.
“Early research has revealed that the bacteria residing in our intestines could impact brain development, its biochemistry and subsequently behaviour, at a much greater degree than originally thought.”
A study in Stockholm, Sweden, revealed how germ-free mice grown in sterile conditions from birth are significantly more adventurous compared to cloned mice colonised with their natural microbiota.
Another preliminary study revealed how age-related memory decline in rats could be reversed through probiotic-administration to alter their gut microbiota.
It was shown that after probiotic treatment, restored beneficial bacteria populations helped in activating genes that are crucial for nerve cell growth and formation of neuronal connections.
This is important for memory function, among others. This highlights the possibility of designing drug and dietary interventions to improve brain functionality.
“Learning thought-provoking knowledge throughout the courses regularly fired up my interest in this field.
“The programme is diverse in terms of integrating far-fetched scientific fields together, although it was overwhelming at times to digest huge amounts of information throughout the semesters.
“Even so, my coursemates and I were fortunate to be under the guidance of dedicated and experienced lecturers who ensured that none of us were left behind,” he added.
Goh did his internship at Sunway Medical Centre, where he learned about human diseases and how they were diagnosed. He is now an assistant tutor undertaking his PhD in science at Monash University Malaysia.
For Goh, the internship and research project were the most impactful part of his studies.
“Being an intern in a professional working environment helped me brush up on my interpersonal skills and professional conduct when dealing with co-workers and the general public.
“My final semester research project also equipped me with important technical knowledge that I am constantly applying in my postgraduate studies. Most importantly, I have been encouraged to learn, think and act more like a scientist.”
Goh, who is currently undertaking an exchange programme at Monash University Clayton Campus, hopes to join the academic or industrial sectors related to biological sciences.
With 75% of the subjects focusing on biology, graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biology with Psychology will be equipped with a strong foundation to further their studies at the postgraduate level in the area of neuroscience and clinical or pharmaceutical research.
Alongside academic studies, students are provided opportunities to hone their research skills and practical experience through innovative and independent research projects in their final year.
They also gain valuable working experience though internships in the healthcare or biotechnology industry.
The BSc (Hons) Biology with Psychology at Sunway University is validated by Lancaster University and upon successful completion, graduates are awarded two certificates – one from Sunway University and another from Lancaster University.
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