Current Profession: GMP Production Operator at Wyss Zürich and Laboratory Technician at the University Hospital Zürich
University attended: MSc Biomedicine at University Zürich, Switzerland
What is your best memory of GIS?
I’m not sure there is a single moment that stands out as the best; with everything we got up to, both within and outside of the classroom, it’s hard to choose! Lunchtime football sessions definitely do spring to mind though- they certainly were a lot of fun, even if the rules were a little flexible! I was lucky to have many special classmates and incredible teachers who made my time at GIS unforgettable.
Nicolas, please tell us more about your job.
I am currently employed at the University Hospital Zürich, and split my time between working as a Laboratory Technician and focusing on GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice). Daily tasks include keeping the laboratory running by maintaining inventory, ensuring new members are trained according to our biosafety protocols, and supporting senior researchers with their experiments.
My work also involves the processing of patients’ stem cells into a novel therapy, and research towards the refining of this process. It requires the use of cleanrooms, a lot of protocols, and a ton of paperwork. However, it’s incredibly exciting to be on the forefront of cutting edge research!
I love the variety in my work. I work in a dynamic field which is constantly evolving, and learning about new developments keeps things interesting. Participating in research projects, which deepen our understanding of Biology and may lead to new therapies, is also very rewarding.
Who in GIS inspired or motivated you the most when you were here?
I had many incredible teachers: my Maths teacher Ms Yap and Chemistry teacher Mr Donaldson for example. However, I think Mr Fernandes, my Biology teacher, left the greatest impression on me. Not only was he great fun, but his high expectations and genuine belief in us never stopped him from cracking down on us when he believed we needed a little push to fulfil our potential. I am very grateful to him for that (and sorry for frustrating him at times!)
Of course, the classmates you spend so much time with can also be a great source of inspiration. Peers such as Shawn Tan with his great work ethic, Kin Nam and his ability to bring people together, and Gareth Wedlake who really emphasised the importance of quick thinking, really stand out. That being said, I think Nicholas Chan had the biggest impact on me: his out of the box thinking, his ability to throw caution to the wind in pursuit of his goals, and his overall personality is something that few in my year will forget.
Describe GIS in three words…
Memorable, inspiring, and fun.
How did GIS shape who you are today?
I think the international nature of GIS is one of its greatest assets- the exposure to different cultures and ways of thinking makes you more flexible, adaptable and undoubtedly more open- minded.
What would be the one piece of advice you would give to current students at GIS?
Make the most of your time! Have fun with your friends, and rely on the experience of your teachers, especially when it comes to university choices and applications. They’ve been through it before and can really help guide you through such important decisions.
Thank you, Nicolas, for taking the time and sharing your experiences with us.
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