Final year biomedical science student from International Medical University, Germaine Too Ga Sin had the opportunity to spend two months doing her practical attachment at the Center for Geomicrobiology, Aarhus University, Denmark. Here, she recalls fondly her experience in Denmark. 
“It has been a fantastic research experience for me to spend two months at the Center for Geomicrobiology, Aarhus University, Denmark for my practical attachment. This was my first time travelling alone in Europe, which has a very much different background, culture and language from that of Asia. However, I was still excited about this trip because I am certain that I will be making lots of new friends there! Within this period in Denmark, I would say it has definitely changed the way I think and live. I love staying in Denmark! I was granted permission to have my practical attachment in the Center for Geomicrobiology, Aarhus University in June 2014. It is a Center of Excellence funded by the Danish National Research Foundation for a five-year period (2012-2017). The former Center for Geomicrobiology (2007-2012) was based on a joint grant from The Danish National Research Foundation and the German Max Planck Foundation. 
Prof Andreas Schramm has agreed to accommodate me under his supervision and I worked together with one of his PhD students, Caitlin Petro. My research focuses on validating a newly developed technique known as “quickHCR-FISH”. I also had the opportunity to have experience doing some collaborative work with Biomedicine and iNaNo departments. To examine the single bacterial cell, Raman spectromicroscope was used in combination with the silicone chips. On the other hand, flow cytometer was used to sort out the mixture of bacterial cells. Fortunately, the results were convincing enough to further proceed with sediments collected from the sea floor. During this research period, I found out the biggest difference in working style between Denmark and Malaysia. They are more focussed on socialising and relaxing. Everyone was having lunch in the coffee room together every day. And we did often have some high-tea or beer sessions in this Center. 
Throughout this period, Kristian Andreasen has hosted me in his place. He has helped me a lot in familiarising with the places, public transportation and cuisine in Aarhus. During weekends, he was willing to spare his time with me to watch movies and visiting the attractions in Aarhus. Meeting new people has made me more open-minded and courageous to get out from my own comfort zone. Besides this, I have made some short trips to London, Copenhagen, Nykøbing Mors and Hjern during weekends. Upon reflection, I have no regrets to have my research here as it really made a change in my life. I am grateful to my parents who fully support me for the living expenditure in Denmark and my supervisor for being supportive all the times while conducting experiments. I am also thankful to all the new friends I have met in Denmark. This actually made a big part of unforgettable memories in my life.”
Related Posts
