생화학분자생물학회

Sina Shadfar

Macquarie University

sina.shadfar@mq.edu.au

Attending the YSP at FAOBMB 2025 was a truly inspiring and transformative experience in my early scientific career. As a researcher focused on targeting aging mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases, the program provided a valuable platform to engage with peers and global leaders in molecular biology and biochemistry.

One of the highlights was the opportunity for all YSP participants to give oral presentations. Sharing my research on DNA repair and aging-related neurodegeneration with such a diverse and knowledgeable audience was both encouraging and intellectually stimulating. Additionally, I was honoured to be selected to chair the neuroscience panel, which was a unique leadership experience that helped me grow professionally and boosted my confidence in facilitating scientific discussions.

The visit to Prestige Biopharma added a real-world dimension to the program. Exploring their state-of-the-art facilities and learning about their translational research and drug development strategies provided valuable insights into the biotech industry and potential future collaborations.

Beyond the scientific content, the YSP was incredibly enriching on a personal level. The program fostered a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere that encouraged meaningful connections with fellow researchers from across the region. The cultural experiences in Busan were equally memorable—particularly the city tour, the official dinner organized by the committee, and even the K-pop dance session during the conference, which brought fun and energy to the event and highlighted the spirit of cultural exchange.

We also had the privilege of hearing from distinguished scientists. Professor Kazutoshi Mori’s inspiring story about overcoming intense competition to make his discovery in the unfolded protein response was deeply motivating. Equally impactful was Professor Marcia C. Haigis’ talk on aging, which provided a powerful perspective on how basic science can lead to new therapeutic directions.

An especially valuable part of the program was engaging with researchers presenting unpublished, cutting-edge work. Having the opportunity to ask questions and exchange ideas directly with them provided deep insight into current trends and sparked new ideas for my own projects. During the poster sessions, I found myself in stimulating discussions with others working in related areas, often from completely different angles. These interactions felt all too brief, a sign of their richness and relevance.

The experience reminded me that, while we often work in isolation, there is a global community of passionate scientists driving discovery forward. The atmosphere of shared enthusiasm and genuine curiosity was both humbling and energizing.

I am truly grateful to the organizing committee for such a well-designed and impactful program, and I highly recommend the YSP to all early-career researchers seeking to grow both scientifically and personally.