HKPFS Awardee
A Malaysian Scientist's Quest for Agricultural Innovation at CUHK
In the world of molecular biotechnology, solving global agricultural challenges requires both cutting-edge technology and dedicated researchers. At The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Warren Tam is combining these elements to tackle one of the banana industry's most pressing threats. His journey from Malaysia to becoming a CUHK postgraduate student illustrates how international collaboration can advance agricultural science.
Warren's path to Hong Kong graduate school was shaped by his passion for agricultural biotechnology. “[I chose] CUHK because I have always been interested in agricultural biotechnology. And it's one of CUHK's research strengths,” he explains. His research focuses on a critical challenge: the Fusarium wit disease threatening Cavendish bananas, the world's most commercially significant variety.
A Journey Through Three Labs
CUHK's diverse laboratory ecosystem provides graduate students with unique opportunities to explore multiple research approaches and methodologies. This multifaceted environment has proven transformative for students like Warren, who discovered his passion for bioinformatics through exposure to various research settings.
"Basically, I have worked in three different laboratories. The first laboratory I worked in was actually the lab that I'm working in right now. So they work on computer analysis, data analysis. It's still biology research but it takes more of a big data approach," he explains.
This integration of diverse research methods has not only enhanced his academic journey but also enabled valuable international collaborations, such as his current project with the Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
Support for Scientific Excellence
Beyond its comprehensive research facilities, CUHK supports its graduate students through prestigious funding opportunities. Warren's CUHK research has been powered by prestigious scholarships, including the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) and the Joseph Needham Merit Scholarship. “Perhaps one of the important aspects is HKPFS, it does give me more opportunities to attend events, conferences and all that,” he shares.
These Hong Kong graduate student scholarships provide more than just financial support – they offer freedom to focus entirely on research. “The monetary support is quite important. It takes your mind off the financial issues and lets you think about things and concentrate on your work,” he adds.
Balancing Research and Mentorship
Life at CUHK extends beyond the laboratory for Warren. As a resident tutor, he guides other students while managing his own research – a balance made possible by the flexible nature of his bioinformatics work. “My work is very flexible. The work timing and the work location are very flexible. I'm not confined to the lab. I can work anywhere as long as I have my laptop with me,” he explains. This flexibility not only fuels his academic pursuits but also enabled him to participate in sports competitions during his undergraduate years.
Global Connections in Research
The student life at CUHK has opened Warren's eyes to the power of international collaboration. From his vantage point as a Malaysian researcher, he's observed how CUHK professors actively forge connections across borders, creating a truly global research environment.
The University's supportive community has played a crucial role in Warren's development since his undergraduate studies at CUHK. “[The support] my supervisor provides me, if I have any problems in my research, I can ask him for advice. If I have any problems, I can also ask my lab mates for advice,” he shares, highlighting the collaborative atmosphere that defines CUHK campus life.
Wisdom for Future Researchers
For those considering Hong Kong postgraduate studies, Warren offers candid advice about choosing the right path. “In my opinion, when going into a PhD, picking the right supervisor and the right topic is very important, because you will have to know a lot of things that probably aren't going to make you money,” he notes.
His emphasis on genuine interest over financial gain reflects the dedication required for scientific research. The relationship between student and supervisor, he stresses, can significantly shape the entire PhD experience.
A Foundation for Future Innovation
Warren's story at CUHK illustrates how the right combination of academic support, research opportunities, and international exposure can nurture scientific talent. Through the University's strengths in agricultural biotechnology, mentor guidance, and scholarship support, he's built a foundation for meaningful contributions to his field.
As he continues his work in molecular biotechnology, Warren's experience demonstrates how CUHK graduate programmes can transform passionate students into innovative researchers, ready to tackle global challenges through science.
