March 8 is the International Women's Day, an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women all around the world. HKU-Pasteur is committed to advancing gender equality in science and research, creating an inclusive environment that empowers women to thrive and lead in their fields.
In our next portrait, we feature Yihan Lin, a dedicated PhD student exploring important questions in immunology.
What is your educational background and training? And why did you chose to work in science?
Yihan Lin: I completed my undergraduate studies in Bioengineering at Nanjing University of Science and Technology in China. I subsequently completed a two-year research Master's degree (MPhil) at the University of Hong Kong's Faculty of Medicine. My decision to pursue a research career stemmed from a combination of factors: my strong interest in biology and my parents' encouragement to strive for greater personal achievement in the future.
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What is your role at HKU-Pasteur and what projects are you working on?
Yihan Lin: I am a PhD student in Dr. Sooksan Wong's lab. My research focuses on the immune response of older adults to influenza vaccination and the identification of immunosenescence biomarkers. Our goal is to improve the effectiveness of influenza vaccines in the elderly population and enhance their protection against this vulnerable group.
How do you feel about the role of women in science today?
Yihan Lin: During my studies, I have been fortunate to meet many inspiring female researchers, particularly those who are also mothers. They not only shoulder the responsibilities of the family but also bravely pursue their aspirations and explore the unknown frontiers of science. It's also very encouraging to see a growing number of women making significant research contributions. Women in research often face significant pressure due to the substantial time and energy commitment required. While the path may not always be easy, we forge our careers with dedication and hard work.
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