A dream come true at Flinders University
Fascinated by life and nature since childhood, Hien Le has always dreamed to be a researcher in biology.
After completing a Bachelor of Biology in his home country of Vietnam, Hien moved to Australia to continue his studies with a Master of Biotechnology at Flinders University. Now, he is undertaking a PhD in science.
“During the research components of those courses, I am lucky to meet great teachers and supervisors,” said Hien.
“They helped me understand the significance of antibiotics and the drug-resistance crisis in global healthcare which inspired me to seriously pursue a PhD in this area.”
Fighting to beat bacteria
Building on his existing skills, Hien’s PhD research is focused on how to tackle the antibiotic resistance crisis. It is a major problem, especially in developing countries including his home country of Vietnam.
Staph (Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of bacteria that is a major cause of healthcare-associated infections. There are concerns that these bacteria can develop strategies to survive a typical disinfection routine.
“Our research projects focus on understanding how the bacteria can expel disinfectants out of their cell.
“We will then use that knowledge to develop inhibiting agents that can block the expulsion process, thereby restoring and increasing the effectiveness of disinfectants against these bacteria.”
Increasing passion for science
Hien felt that his experience while studying at Flinders was very worthwhile and robust. In his Master course, the structure of topics was carefully planned out with balanced lectures, tutorials, workshops and experiments, and consultation components.
For Hien, the nine-month research project was the most challenging but also the most exciting part of his degree.
“We got to choose a supervisor from a variety of research fields. Their guidance and the support from staff and seniors throughout the project expanded my knowledge and skill sets and increase my passion for confidently choosing the research path.
“The course structures at Flinders can make you confident that you would be career-ready upon graduation.”
Polishing existing skills, learning new skills, and having massive hands-on involvement in a specific sector of biotechnology through the research component was very helpful for Hien’s studies.
“Through the research component, we met great people from both academic and industry environments. These experiences, skills, and connections grant us a better understanding of the opportunities the degree opens for us. I choose to pursue higher education, but there is no lack of employment opportunities also.”
World-renowned reasons to choose Flinders
Conducted by an internationally renowned faculty, biotechnology research at Flinders addresses major global problems facing humanity and more than 90% of our research was rated as “world standard” in the 2018 ERA assessment.
While initially looking for a place to do postgraduate study, Flinders was Hien’s top choice due to his interest in the research projects of the world-renowned academic faculty.
“The university has great academic environments and student support services.
“The course also has a variety of topics that met my interests and the great scenery on top of a hill with a clear view of the sea has solidified my choice.
“After two years in Flinders studying Master of Biotechnology, my good impression of Flinders is more than enough to keep me continuing my PhD here.”
An advantageous location
Impressed by the scenery of the Flinders campus, Hien has enjoyed the wide-open space with great sea views providing breathtaking sunsets.
“On campus, you can see magpies, parakeets, noisy miners, and of course the ducks that make themselves at home in the university, sometimes even koalas too!
“Despite being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you will hardly feel lonely since the students and staff are friendly and come from various cultures. You can go to Student Hubs at 10 pm and still find many there to chat. There are also a lot of active cultural clubs through which you can meet your compatriot.”
Future plans to put his Flinders education to good use
After completing his PhD, Hien plans to continue with post-doctoral research to further develop his expertise and connections.
“I would like to return to Vietnam to become a lecturer and researcher at a university there.
“I am excited and looking forward to putting my education at Flinders to good use!”
Make a positive impact
Hien says that choosing to study at Flinders University has been one of his best decisions!
“If you are interested in a career related to medicine, public health or biotechnology and are passionate about making a positive impact on your community; if you want to prepare for that career with a world-recognised education program but still want to enjoy a hospitable environment with nice people, beautiful scenery and ducks, come and study at Flinders University.”
Learn more about Biotechnology at Flinders.