Medical Biotechnology students at IMU University undertake a 24-week internship to gain practical experience, bridging classroom knowledge with industry and research practice. In 2026, half of the cohort secured international placements particularly at research-focused institutions, providing opportunities to develop technical skills, participate in global scientific collaborations, and gain valuable exposure to diverse research environments that prepare them for careers in biotechnology, healthcare, and biomedical research.

At IMU University, experiential learning is a cornerstone of the Medical Biotechnology programme. A key component of this is the 24-week internship, where students gain hands-on exposure in real-world settings; bridging classroom knowledge with industry and research practice.

This year marks an exciting milestone, with half of our cohort undertaking their internships abroad, particularly in research-focused institutions. These international placements not only enhance technical competencies but also broaden students’ perspectives through cross-cultural scientific collaboration and exposure to diverse research environments.

From advanced laboratory techniques to independent project execution, students are immersed in meaningful work that strengthens their readiness for careers in biotechnology, healthcare, and research.

Let’s hear from our students as they share their internship experiences and the lessons they have gained.

Melanie Ng Mei Zhe

Yuan Ze University, Taiwan

“My internship at Yuan Ze University has been a really meaningful journey for me, both in and out of the lab. I got to dive deeper into microalgae research, which challenged me to think more critically and become more confident in handling experiments on my own.

Working alongside researchers from different backgrounds made the experience even more enriching, as I learned new perspectives and approaches to biotechnology.

Living in Taiwan also pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me grow more independent and adaptable in everyday life.”

Syaza Qistina

Australian National University, Australia

“My Final Year Project on submergence tolerance in a rice mutant sparked my interest in plant stress physiology, with guidance from Prof Ts Dr Anna Ling Pick Kiong playing a key role in shaping this direction. This led me to pursue a research internship at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra.

Despite limited prior exposure to plant biology and adapting to a new research culture, I gained hands-on experience studying heat tolerance in maize hybrids.

I was also trained on advanced systems such as Q2 and LI-COR (LI-6400, LI-6800), enhancing my technical and research capabilities.”

Emily Lim Yi Xuan

University of Otago, New Zealand

“This internship at University of Otago has been a valuable experience that strengthened both my technical lab skills and my soft skills.

I had the chance to learn new laboratory techniques and put my theoretical knowledge into practice.

Adapting to a new environment and stepping outside my comfort zone also helped me become more independent.

This experience has allowed me to gain a better understanding of myself and gave me a clearer sense of my future direction.”

Shariann Choo Yan Qi

Academic Sinica, Taiwan

“My internship at Academia Sinica provided me with a valuable and enriching research experience where I worked alongside professional researchers in a real laboratory environment.

During my time there, I had the opportunity to assist with a small research project while also participating in ongoing studies and experiments. I developed skills in analysing and interpreting scientific data in a professional research setting. This experience deepened my understanding of experimental design, scientific communication, and teamwork in academia, while also reinforcing my passion for biotechnology research.”

More stories, experiences, and insights are coming your way — look forward to Part 2!