GOI-IES Scholarship 2024

Essay 1: What is the benefit of becoming a GOI-IES Scholar, to yourself (personally and professionally), to Ireland, and your country of origin? (15 marks) MAX 500 WORDS

The advantages of being a GOI-IES scholar include: it will provide me a chance to explore a different culture with beautiful landscapes and grow as an individual by indulging in serious research work that can shape the future of biopharmaceuticals, provide affordable drugs to the needy, and make the industry an aid for billions of people. 

I resolve to become proficient in the development of biotechnological cells through the master's programme in cellular manufacturing and therapy. Through this course, I desire to take part in analytical research on several gene therapies at NUIG's Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) in virtue of the Centre for Cell Manufacturing, where I elect to focus on vectors such as CAR-T therapy and the adeno-associated virus. This is consistent with my present training in MicroCrispr's analytical department. The current topics of research in REMEDI, like extracellular vesicles, also align with my interests in drug delivery systems, where I would collaborate with professors.

I have a mind to perform statistical studies on the ethical issues involving RNA vaccines during the pandemic and tools like Crispr, utilising my experience in biosafety and security initiatives. It will benefit Irish academia to discuss safety and governance issues with Irish scholars through international conferences and competitions, such as the ones I participated in for iGEM and BIOSUMMIT. I will always keep my alumnus, i.e., the University of Galway, in high regard and tell about my experiences at future events promoting the pursuit of higher education in Ireland. 

In addition, I intend to coordinate several events, including conferences, workshops, and contests, using my global network within the biotechnology community.  Both Irish and Indian students will gain from this, as one will be exposed to a high-edge research environment while the other will strengthen links with experts around the world and the scientific community. During my time in Ireland, as a representative of the Indian ethos and value system, my soft power will make inroads into the hearts of Irish people. Highlighting the role of training and academic help I will get in Ireland  at different forums wherever I pursue my career will strengthen the relationship between the nations involved and their people. Being a citizen of the fastest growing economy on the planet, I vow to reciprocate whatever I get from Ireland and its education system. 

Thus, my goals and interests coincide with Ireland's top research priorities. This scholarship will pave my way to being the next-generation biotechnological leader. 

Essay 2. As a GOI-IES Scholar, how will you extend yourself beyond your project/studies to become actively involved in Irish society in order to maximize your academic /cultural exchange experience and raise awareness of the GOI-IES scheme in Ireland and beyond? (15 marks) MAX 500 WORDS  

To fully immerse myself in Irish society, I plan to do the following:

I will volunteer for gardening and research policy roles at the Galway Volunteer Centre, which will keep me close to nature and get me close to the Irish community. In addition, I'll join the university's trekking society, which will enable me to see all of the local scenery and socialise with fellow nature enthusiasts.

I want to expand the University of Galway's Organic Waste Circular Economy Project while embracing the learn-live-lead methodology. In line with Ireland's pledge to the circular economy, I hope to propose utilising food waste for mycelium structures and mushroom production.

I desire to join the university's Anime and Manga Society, as I believe manga acts as a platform for shaping one’s personal and cultural identity. Discussions on different sociocultural aspects of the dystopian world often sketched in this medium among the diverse members of society will provide me with a creative outlet. I'll additionally become a member of the Irish Federation of Indian Communities (FICI), which is a non-profit, non-political organisation where I can assist with various celebrations and festivities. 

Having served as the vice captain of the karate club throughout my undergraduate studies, I intend to continue the practice of karate at the University of Galway. Karate as an art form and self-defence technique keeps me motivated and disciplined. Being quite athletic, I want to explore every sport in Ireland, and rowing is the one I'm most interested in training for so I can participate in traditional rowing competitions and make lifelong friends.  

In conclusion, I will participate in multifaceted aspects along with my studies in Ireland. This will combine self-immersion in cross-cultural interactions, sports, and volunteering.

Essay 3. Explain the extent to which you have a long-term interest in Ireland and how will you promote links with Ireland during your time as a GOI-IES Scholar and following your studies, as a GOI-IES Alumni. (15 marks) MAX 500 WORDS 

The reasons I chose to pursue my higher studies in Ireland include various factors: 1. Ireland is a major English-speaking nation. This will help me learn and interact with everyone without any problems, as English is my second language. 

2. As Ireland is the hub for the biopharmaceutical industry, it will provide me with quality education in the latest biopharmaceutical technologies. Specifically, I aspire to network with gene therapy professionals like Mr. Anthony Newcombe, the founder of Applied Biopharm Consulting. Networking with pioneers and receiving guidance from the career consultation programmes at the university will pave the way to the success of my career as a biotechnological expert and entreprenuer. 

3. Ireland has great laws and government policies that will provide a safe environment for me as an international student, along with top quality education.  

To actively promote links with Ireland, I plan to:

1. I will carry out gene therapy projects with Irish professors and students during my study year. My ambition is to establish an Irish iGEM league where the competition will be based on bioentrepreneurship, biosafety and security, and governance projects. I aim to start by leveraging my experience in the BIOSUMMIT conference, iGEM community, and The Rhizomatic Revolution Review-Journal (R3) journal and organising a university-centred competition with the help of university societies like the EXPLORE programme and EntreSoc. 

2. Once I start my professional life, I will assist students in pursuing higher education in Ireland using different social media networks and blogs, using my experience in content creation. Starting an interview series with professionals who studied in Ireland and are working in the biopharmaceutical industry will promote Irish education globally. Their experiences and insights will also benefit students globally. 

3. Lastly, once I start my entrepreneurial journey in India, I intend to invite Irish students for internships and collaborations, facilitating global exchange.