On July 6, 2025, 20 students from Department of Chemistry arrived in the National University of Singapore (NUS) with great enthusiasm. NUS has become the dream school of many students due to its excellent academic atmosphere, unique inclusiveness and outstanding academic achievements. The students from Department of Chemistry brought the spirits of Zhejiang University to NUS, and are going to bring our precious experiences back to Zhejiang University.
01 Learning Experiences
The exchange program, "Chemistry of Life", focused on the mysteries of biological macromolecules.
In the first week, the courses were based on the "Central Dogma" and conducted in-depth theoretical explorations. Professor Cynthia He began with the identification of genetic material and vividly recreated the key stages in the history of science. This remains an active field nowadays that attracts researchers to continue delving deeper into the mysteries of genetics. Professor Liou Yih-Cherng discussed about the mechanisms of DNA expression within cells, while Professor Low Boon Chuan guided us through the structure and function of genomes, highlighting their pivotal role in life processes—a perspective that illuminated the profound impact of the Human Genome Project. Professor Vivienne Tan, on the other hand, traced the evolution of DNA sequencing technologies, demonstrating how macroscopic molecules are decoded into precise base sequences. Together, these lectures not only built a foundational understanding of modern life science but also showcased the remarkable historical progress of the field.
During the second week, the focus turned to real-world applications. Topics like enzyme engineering, gene editing, and forensic DNA analysis brought us to the forefront of life science research. Through learning these cases, we gained firsthand insights into the great potential of the field—from healthcare and biotechnology to criminal justice—and saw how fundamental research transforms into tangible innovations that shape our world.
Beyond theoretical classes, lab sessions also left a lasting impression on us. The two-week lab course was led by two professors, with supports from multiple teaching assistants. We were divided into four-person groups and focused on extracting and purifying biomolecules—mainly DNAs and proteins. By the end of the sessions, we not only gained hands-on experiences in life science techniques but also strengthened our friendship through teamwork.
02 After-school Life
While learning was the focus of the program, daily life added its own vibrant hues to the experience. During our time in Singapore, we immersed ourselves in the local culture. We paused for photos at the Merlion statue, marveled at the fireworks over Marina Bay, and explored the diverse culinary scene of the city.
Yet, the most unforgettable moments unfolded on campus. The residential area, UTown, stood as its own bustling hub, where students often gathered at cafeterias after the courses to discuss about the contents. The academic district, with its rolling terrain and winding paths, proved disorienting at the beginning. Many students got lost during the first several days. But as time passed, we gradually got familiar with the roads.
However, all stories must end. The farewell dinner on July 18th marked the close of this chapter. Professor Yu Hao, Director of DBS, delivered a speech, followed by retrospective on the program by Professor Wang Xianhui. The students and faculty groups took turns performing. After a final group photo, the 14-day journey came to an official end.
Goodbyes pave the way for reunions. When we meet again, may the saplings of today have grown into towering trees.
03 Conclusions and Reflections
One last day at NUS. Hope we can meet again someday. One last coconut. I still want to drink it. 10,000+ steps have brought unforgettable summer memories (Chill City Walk).
——Chen XiuYu
Through this summer course at NUS, I gained a lot. The laboratory experiments left the deepest impression on me. The consecutive week-long experiments that were interrelated made me have a deeper understanding of the research work. At the same time, the all-English environment also greatly improved myself. All of this was inseparable from the patient guidance of the professors and teaching assistants and the mutual cooperation of the group members. These two weeks of study also enabled me to experience the local customs and culture of Singapore, and I had a very novel experience.
——Xu Yang
During these two weeks at NUS, our lives were very fulfilling and the course schedule was diverse. Under the mode of integrating theoretical and experimental teaching, the professors meticulously taught knowledge in various fields every day, and we completed experiments through group collaboration. These benefited me greatly. During this process, I also met many outstanding students from different universities and backgrounds. We exchanged and learned from each other, which was a very valuable experience.
——Huang Jun
Author: Jun Huang (student)
