International cooperation in cell metabolism research Doctoral student reports on her stay in Canada

In January, doctoral student Hanna Willenbockel had the opportunity to spend two weeks learning about research and everyday working life in Vancouver, Canada. As part of a continuing education stay funded by Erasmus+ (Erasmus+ KA171, staff mobility for continuing education purposes), she travelled to the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, where she learned new scientific methods in Prof. Seth Parker’s working group and gained valuable international research experience.

Doctoral student Hanna Willenbockel at the SURFE2R. Photo credits: Hanna Willenbockel/TU Braunschweig

Canada gave me a warm welcome right from the start – with unusually sunny weather. On my way to the lab, I was able to enjoy the view of the mountains surrounding Vancouver, such as Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour. The view alone makes Vancouver worth a visit. But of course, that wasn’t the only reason I was in Canada; I was also there to further my education. At Parker Lab, researchers are working on transport proteins and how the transport of metabolites or metabolic products works, including in diseases such as cancer. So my research into NaCT metabolism meant I was in the right place. NaCT is a protein that transports citrate in cells, particularly in the liver, brain and testicles. The research may provide clues to treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

One of my main goals was to learn how to use the SURFE2R, a device that can be used to measure the uptake of metabolites by a transporter.

But of course, my visit went beyond the technical aspects. Above all, I got to know the people there and exchanged ideas with them. It was exciting to talk to the other doctoral students about how our studies and our lives as doctoral students differ. After all, most people in Canada spend over five years doing their doctorate, but often do not complete a separate master’s degree.

We also had good conversations in our private time; in fact, we managed to get the entire eleven-member laboratory team together for a meal. There was a lot of laughter and some prejudices about both Germans and Canadians were dispelled. Although some were confirmed, for example, that Canadians are actually quite polite on average and that we Germans love our bread.

Overall, I can say that my trip to Vancouver was a fantastic experience. I learned a lot, saw many great things and met lots of really nice people. And I am already looking forward to the return visit soon.

View from Vancouver across the bay. Photo credits: Hanna Willenbockel/TU Braunschweig

P.S.: Of course, I also had some time for sightseeing. If you ever come to Vancouver, I can highly recommend the Public Market on Granville Island for souvenir shopping. Stanley Park is also a beautiful spot of nature, and the Sea Wall, which runs along the edge of the park, offers a great view of the city skyline.

Text: Hanna Willenbockel