YISHU LIU // UNIVERSITY OF GALWAY // PhD STUDENT

»Working with teammates from diverse backgrounds provided me with new perspectives on how to approach my research.« 

Yishu is a PhD student at the University of Galway and an Innovator in soft robotics for insulin delivery. Originally from Changsha in China, Yishu chose Galway as her first destination for her academic journey abroad. Earlier this year she participated in the ENLIGHT bio design course in Uppsala, Sweden, where she immersed herself in interdisciplinary teamwork and medical device development. This experience not only broadened her expertise but also deepened her understanding of collaboration and innovation. When she is not in the lab, Yishu enojoys unning, travelling, and finding inspiration in books like The Wisdom of Life by Arthur Schopenhauer.

Why did you choose your field of study/teaching/research?

Yishu: My PhD project focuses on developing a soft robotic device for insulin delivery, an advanced field that fascinates me. This area of research aligns with my previous study and research experiences, and I’d like to explore more about it.

What do you like the most about your current occupation?

Yishu: I really enjoy my PhD journey because I could dedicate myself to design experiments to explore uncharted territory. More importantly, my work might contribute to alleviating the struggles of people with diabetes.

Have you been a part of any ENLIGHT course?

Yishu: Yes, in May 2024, I participated in a biodesign course hosted by Uppsala University. The course aimed to establish contacts with PhD students interested in medical device development. It included two online meetings followed by a five-day in-person workshop. Participants were divided into four groups, each focusing on a different topic. We worked collaboratively through the entire medical device development process, from need finding to invention and implementation, all based on a well-established framework. Throughout the course, we received support and guidance from experienced medical device developers, teachers, and entrepreneurs.

How would you describe the experience?

Yishu: The experience was inspiring, especially in the early stages of my PhD. Firstly, the course was highly relevant to my project, introducing me the Biodesign process. Secondly, the tutors provided valuable insights the academic, commercial and practical perspectives, which enriched my understanding. Thirdly, the teamwork allowed me to deeply communicate with other PhD students, fostering meaningful connections.

ENLIGHT offers a unique window into the global academic community, connecting researchers and students across diverse disciplines.

What was the impact? Were there any resources that you found especially helpful and why?

Yishu: Working with teammates from diverse backgrounds provided me with new perspectives on how to approach my research. For example, during a brainstorming session on the second day, we collectively generated a multitude of excellent ideas, each rooted in our respective areas of expertise. As we wrote all these ideas on stickers and covered an entire wall with them, I realized how this collaborative effort enriched our discussion, making the topic more comprehensive and allowing us to delve deeper into the subject. This experience taught me the value of interdisciplinary thinking in driving innovation and enhancing the quality of research.


Did you feel part of a broader academic community by taking part in ENLIGHT?

Yishu: Yes, I definitely felt part of a broader academic community during my ENLIGHT experience. We were divided into groups to design a medical device, each focusing on a different topic. In my group, there were experienced clinical doctors, engineers, and researchers. We worked together for several days, during which I learned a great deal from them. This collaboration not only enriched my understanding but also laid the groundwork for potential future connections.


Did participating in ENLIGHT meet your expectations? If so, how?

Yishu: Yes, it exceeded my expectations. Not only did I gain valuable insights from the course itself, but I also had the opportunity to meet many other PhD students, learn about their research pursuits, and gain a broader, global perspective on my field.


How would you describe ENLIGHT in two sentences?

Yishu: ENLIGHT offers a unique window into the global academic community, connecting researchers and students across diverse disciplines. It provides opportunities to gain new perspectives and collaborate on innovative projects.


What is the best book you read/listened to in the past year?

Yishu:The Wisdom of Life by Arthur Schopenhauer. This book helped me rethink the meaning of happiness and provided me with a sense of encouragement and renewed perspective.


If you were to recommend ENLIGHT to a colleague, what would you say?

Yishu: I would say that ENLIGHT is an exceptional opportunity to expand your academic horizons, gain hands-on experience in your field, and connect with a diverse network of researchers and professionals. It's a chance to grow both professionally and personally.