Embarking on my research journey at the Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST, has truly been a transformative experience. The University of Leeds not only provided but also funded this remarkable opportunity, enabling myself and four others to travel to Daejeon, South Korea, and partake in a six-week research program alongside KAIST PhD and Postdoctoral students. Throughout my work, I immersed myself in groundbreaking nanotechnology applications for early-stage lung cancer detection.

This unique experience was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to conduct impactful research using state-of-the-art equipment at South Korea's top science and technology university. Beyond the academic realm, I had the privilege to connect with incredible individuals, both within the department I worked with and among the diverse group of students participating in the program from around the world. Aside from being a standout addition to my CV, this opportunity allowed me to explore various parts of the country, including Seoul, Busan, and the DMZ. These explorations, whether on KAIST-organized field trips or personally arranged excursions with fellow Leeds students and other friends we met along the way, enabled me to fully immerse myself in Korean culture outside of work.

I extend my deepest appreciation to the University of Leeds for making this journey possible. Working in South Korea has been an incredibly positive experience, fostering connections with amazing individuals and creating unforgettable memories that will forever contribute to my professional and personal growth. 감사합니다!

Oatley Ryan James Stephenson, University of Leeds