Suppose Principal Investigators (PI) are considered the “brain” of a research institution; then Ph.D. students are the dynamic “blood” that keeps it flowing. These students, who are always youthful and curious, bring fresh energy, making the entire institution vibrant. As the September academic season begins, the Chinese Institutes for Medical Research, Beijing (CIMR) proudly welcomes its first cohort of joint Ph.D. students with Capital Medical University. On the 12th, scientists of CIMR including Mei Lin, Li Chuanyuan, Zhu Honghu, Tan Xu, Zhang Yu, and Zhu Songbiao and administrative staff, engaged in discussions with the students, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual understanding.

The students come from diverse academic backgrounds and possess various skills. Some may be charmingly introverted but excel in laboratory experiments, while some were practicing clinicians before joining the program. Some hold rich research experience beyond their years, having worked at renowned foreign universities before pursuing their Ph.D. Others, despite having interests in areas like anime and arts, present a serious demeanor when discussing their research. There are even those with backgrounds in the humanities who demonstrate remarkable research prowess.

The teachers present freely expressed their excitement upon seeing these young faces. They introduced their work and generously shared the skills, assistance, and equipment with the students.

As Professor Rao Yi has emphasized, “Students who join the Chinese Institutes for Medical Research, Beijing (CIMR) early will receive the most support.” The Director and Distinguished Researcher of CIMR, Mei Lin, stated that learning is both challenging and enjoyable. “In my view, scientific research is one of the best professions,” he remarked, “In CIMR, we focus on, undertake medical translation, allow unfettered discovery, and students not only conduct experiments but also acquire degrees and social recognition.” He hopes that everyone will become PI in the future, but how to achieve it? Mei advised students to seek in-depth instruction as soon as possible since CIMR provides an ideal platform. He knew the challenges students might face, reminding them that everyone begins with a clean slate and encouraging them to be proactive, ask questions, and seek assistance from experienced peers, senior students, and teachers. One word they tell you may save you several months or even half a year.

“CIMR is like a big family,” Mei Lin said earnestly, “If you have any unhappy experiences, please don't keep them to yourself; instead, share them with your professors and classmates. Regardless of your personal or academic challenges, the professors present will look after you. My office is always open, and you are always welcome to chat with me at any time.” Finally, Mei Lin hoped that the students would appreciate the difficult 3-5 years ahead, finding joy in the process, because the graduate and postdoctoral stages, when focused on their research topics, are really the happiest moments in a research career.