Kailash Singh

Kailash Singh is a Master student in Immunology & Molecular Infection Biology (Master Programme in Biology).

Where are you from?

I am from Rajasthan, the north-western part of India.

How did you find out about this education?

When I pursued my Undergraduate studies at Christian Medical College, Vellore, India, I found out that my college has an academic collaboration with Uppsala University. I had studied Immunology during my Bachelors and I always wanted to continue this with a good Masters degree. I heard that Uppsala University offered a renowned program in this area and I immediately went for it. Now, I am pursuing my Masters degree in Immunology and Molecular Infection Biology as a J.N. TATA Endowment Scholar candidate.

Uppsala University has more than 3000 researchers each of whom strive to provide the best scientific knowledge, continuing the research tradition started by the likes of Carl Linnaeus, Alfred Bernhard Nobel, Olaus Rudbeck, and Anders Celsius. I am honoured to study under such a prestigious research tradition.

What do you think of Sweden and you programme so far?

I am staying in Flogsta, which is the obvious choice of most Uppsala University students. The winters here can be white and cold (especially this year) but indoors it is warm and cheerful. Living in Flogsta is also fun because I can interact with many international and Swedish students of pursuing varying degree interests.
The quality of education in Sweden is well-known and there is a long-standing tradition of doing innovative research. I enjoy and appreciate the classes and practical that my Masters program offers.

What are the differences between studying in Sweden and studying in India?

I am happy to study in Sweden where the education covers basic knowledge to current research of a particular field. The lecture seminars are a helpful tool for us on how to read articles and present them. Having courses occur consecutively, rather than simultaneously, also allows students to concentrate better. The Professors are approachable and knowledgeable and are always available to students for academic help or advice. The Biology program here is quite flexible and this allows students to tailor their courses according to their relevant research interest. Uppsala University also offers many opportunities for students to take advantage of their exchange program with other established Universities.

What would you like to do in the future?

I am presently working with Dr. Gunilla T Westermark, Dept. of Medical Cell Biology, on formation of cell toxic amyloid, specialized IAPP (Islet amyloid polypeptide) and it’s involvement in Beta-cell death both in type 2 diabetes and in human islet transplanted to patient with type 1 diabetes. I am hoping to continue with this work in the coming future.

Elisabeth Långström and Kailash Singh