STUDENT INTRODUCTION

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  3. Maria Thea Rane Dela Cruz Clarin
Maria Thea Rane Dela Cruz Clarin
Fields of study:
Vascular Matrix Biology / Smart Polymers
Mentors:
Dr. Hiromi Yanagisawa / Dr. Mitsuhiro Ebara

Quenching curiosity through scientific work

The first time that I have heard about the Ph.D. Program in Humanics cultivating bi-disciplinary research, I have been fascinated with the countless potential opportunities.

I graduated with biological engineering degree, where I previously worked on the design of biomaterials. As I am interested in doing deeper biology, particularly in elucidating molecular mechanisms underlying a disease, I decided that this program is the most suitable for me. Thus, this leads me to my current research theme revolving around the development of a therapeutic strategy using smart polymers for aortic dissection (AD). In my main mentor’s lab at the TARA center, we investigate the pathophysiology of AD, while the synthesis of polymer and development of nanoparticles are done at my sub mentor’s lab at NIMS. To manage my progress, I switch back between two laboratories. My mentors have provided me with a nurturing environment where I can freely pursue my interests while ensuring that I make progress on my work through consistent communication. It has been helpful to plan the experiments ahead, but it is also important to be adaptive whenever there are unexpected obstacles along the way and learn from each circumstance. Moreover, my colleagues from both laboratories have been very supportive, which makes me further appreciate the value of collaboration.

Through this program, I am able to quench my curiosity by doing scientific work, while aiming to contribute an impact to society. Indeed, I always learn something new, not only about my research but with the accessibility and exposure to different research fields, I get to immerse myself in different perspectives as well.

[Time table of an ordinary day]

09:00
Review and adjust tasks/goals for the day
09:30
Collection of tissue samples and start biology-related experiments at TARA center
12:00
Lunch break
13:00
Meetings
14:30
Commute to NIMS
15:00
Polymer synthesis and characterization of previously prepared samples
19:00
Discussion with colleagues/mentors
21:00
Go home

Examining the aortic tissue sample using dissection microscope.

Setting the sample into NMR machine to confirm whether successful polymer conjugation is achieved.

HKY Lab members during the MatriCell Forum held at TARA Center.