Please tell us about the research theme you are currently working on.

I am studying the mechanism by which cells excrete RNA degradation products that cannot be reused. Getting rid of unnecessary molecules is a crucial task for cells, yet we still don't know much about how they do it. I’m focusing on a plasma membrane transporter in budding yeast that seems to be involved, and I am analyzing its function to uncover the molecular basis of this excretion pathway.

What is your current student life and research life like?

On weekdays, I’m usually in the lab from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm doing experiments or desk work. My lab has many international students, so I have plenty of opportunities to use English. It’s refreshing and stimulating to learn about different cultures and values through daily conversation, not just research discussions.

What moments make your research particularly exciting or interesting?

It’s when I make an unexpected discovery. Unforeseen results lead to new questions, and seeing how life doesn't always follow our predictions makes me appreciate its complexity – and makes me want to understand it even more. I also love the excitement of discussing these results with my supervisor and planning our next steps.