Why Continue a PhD in Melbourne? A Journey of Growth and Discovery
Jakarta, 20th August 2024 – Many students often face the dilemma of choosing the right location for their PhD studies. For one individual, their journey took them to Melbourne, an increasingly popular hub for research and academic excellence. This decision was not entirely a choice; rather, it was a series of unexpected events that led to a fulfilling academic career. Gio Fidelito, an i3L alumni majoring in Biomedicine (cohort 2014) and now a Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne, exemplifies determination and adaptability as he pursued his PhD in Melbourne, Australia. His experiences highlight the factors that influenced his decision and the significant role of his educational background in shaping his research career.
The Decision to Pursue a PhD in Melbourne
During the beginning of his seventh semester at the Indonesian Institute of Life Sciences (i3L), Gio began exploring PhD programs primarily in the UK, where programs often allow students to commence their studies without a Master’s degree. However, his aspirations took a turn in March 2019 while conducting thesis research in Singapore. Following a series of rejection emails from various UK programs, he stumbled upon an advertisement for a PhD focused on prostate cancer and cellular metabolism, aligning perfectly with his research interests.
Despite feeling disheartened by the rejections, Gio decided to apply for the Melbourne program without high expectations. To his surprise, he was shortlisted for an interview just two weeks after the application deadline. This interview was conducted via Zoom—an unusual choice at the time. Gio’s perseverance paid off as he emerged as the top candidate from nearly 60 applicants. This experience reaffirmed that sometimes, life’s paths lead individuals to unexpected places, and in Gio’s case, Melbourne turned out to be one of the best cities to live and study.
Research Focus: Metabolic Vulnerabilities in Cancer
Gio’s PhD research delved into understanding the metabolic vulnerabilities of cancer, specifically prostate cancer. His work aimed to identify strategies to exploit these vulnerabilities for therapeutic benefits, essentially investigating whether depriving cancer cells of essential nutrients could hinder their growth. This research area has experienced exponential growth in recent years, making it an exciting field to be part of and contribute to.
Future Endeavors: Translating Research into Clinical Applications
Upon completing his PhD, Gio continued his research as a research fellow in the same lab where he completed his doctoral studies. Currently, he leads research programs focused on translational prostate cancer and liver cancer metabolism. His work emphasizes translating research findings into clinical applications, particularly by assessing novel drugs targeting lipid metabolism in liver cancer using human liver slices from patients undergoing liver cancer resection. Gio’s passion for research and academia is evident as he continues to ask fundamental scientific questions, design experiments, and interpret the complexities of biology.
The Role of i3L in Shaping Gio’s Journey
Gio credits i3L for playing a pivotal role in his academic and research journey. i3L’s curriculum, which fosters critical thinking, profoundly impacted Gio’s perspective on research from his very first semester. The technical skills he acquired through lab courses and internships at i3L were instrumental in securing his PhD position. Unlike many other candidates, Gio’s hands-on experience provided him with a competitive edge, proving that practical knowledge and experience in applying techniques to research questions are invaluable.
Tips for i3L Students Pursuing a PhD in Melbourne
For i3L students considering a PhD in Melbourne, Gio suggests taking a reflective approach to understand the motivations behind pursuing advanced studies. A PhD is not just academic; it is a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth. Establishing the “right” reasons can significantly aid in navigating the challenges of the application and study process.
Gio notes that securing scholarships can be particularly competitive for international students at the University of Melbourne. However, students with strong academic backgrounds should proactively reach out to potential supervisors about available funding opportunities, such as research grants or university scholarships. Each academic journey is unique, and perseverance is crucial. If initial attempts do not succeed, Gio encourages aspiring PhD candidates to keep trying.
Gio Fidelito’s journey at the University of Melbourne showcases resilience and an unwavering commitment to advancing research in the field of cancer metabolism. For those contemplating similar paths, his experiences highlight the importance of preparation, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace life’s unexpected opportunities. With determination and a clear vision, students can navigate their academic journeys and contribute meaningfully to their fields.
