Alvin Qiu
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I wanted to pursue a graduate degree due to my interest in scientific research and its implications. In clinical medicine, it is obvious that so much is still unknown. I believe that graduate school provides a training environment in which one can learn to identify these critical gaps in knowledge, and ultimately make strides through research that may impact patient care.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I chose to study at UBC because I was attracted to the exciting research that is being conducted here. On top of that, having grown up in Toronto and having previously studied in Montreal, this was a great way to experience life in another beautiful Canadian city.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was interested in the MD/PhD program because I wish to pursue a rewarding career in both clinical medicine and scientific discovery. My perception of a clinician-scientist is someone who has the unique opportunity to integrate both research and clinical medicine. In the long term, I aspire to conduct research that has real clinical impact and ultimately improve the lives of patients.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Life in Vancouver has been absolutely jaw-dropping. I was never previously a person who was too drawn into the great outdoors. However, since moving here, I have capitalized on the ability to spend time in nature and be active. Outside of school, you can always find me hiking, snowboarding, swimming, biking, or just enjoying the beach.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I’m a big advocate for work-life balance! I know this term gets tossed around a lot these days. Nevertheless, I believe that in order to remain focused in school, you also need time to recharge. My advice is to be cognizant of the demands of academia, and balance it with a positive outlook to cherish life and live each day to its fullest.
,
Learn more about Alvin's research
Synovial sarcoma is a highly aggressive soft-tissue cancer that predominantly affects adolescents and young adults. This malignancy, which accounts for 10% to 20% of soft-tissues sarcomas in such a young population, has limited sensitivity to conventional chemotherapies and thus a poor survival rate. Synovial sarcomas are characterized by a unique chromosomal abnormality, a balanced chromosomal translocation t(X,18; p11,q11), that ultimately dysregulates critical genes via epigenetic modifications. The exact mechanisms of how these aberrant processes drive this cancer are poorly defined and controversial. By understanding the epigenomics of synovial sarcomas, we hope to guide the use of emerging epigenetic therapeutic agents in the treatment of this deadly disease.