SU Physics Students Gain Hands-On Experience at Harvard Medical School Labs

Soochow University’s Department of Physics continues its collaboration with Harvard Medical School (HMS), offering selected students the opportunity to participate in summer internships in Boston and engage directly with cutting-edge research in medical physics. As the only program in Taiwan with such a partnership, the initiative provides students with rare access to both advanced laboratory work and clinical applications.

During the program, participants not only explore frontier research topics but also observe real-world medical procedures, including Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) neurosurgery. The experience allows students to witness how theoretical physics is translated into life-changing medical technologies.

The selection process is highly competitive. Applicants must first submit a personal statement and study plan demonstrating their interest in interdisciplinary research. Shortlisted candidates then undergo an initial interview conducted by Department Chair Chun-Hsien Wu and faculty members, followed by a final English-language online interview with Prof. Jason White of HMS.

Reflecting on the experience, Win-Ting Jin, who joined the program in 2024, recalled the impact of observing collaboration between physicists and neurosurgeons. “Seeing non-invasive treatments for Parkinson’s tremors carried out through such teamwork was something no textbook could convey,” Jin said.

Beyond the laboratory, students also have the opportunity to explore the academic environments of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, while gaining a deeper understanding of Boston’s cultural and historical landscape.

Looking ahead, junior student Yung-Xiang Chang, who is set to participate in 2026, expressed strong anticipation. He hopes to observe firsthand how physical principles are applied in clinical settings and to bring back new perspectives and research insights to inform his future studies.

For many participants, the internship represents more than an academic credential. It serves as a formative experience that bridges theory and practice, expands global perspectives, and reinforces the real-world impact of scientific knowledge.