CMU PhD Plant Bio students gain int’l research experience through IIPP in Taiwan
Two doctoral students from Central Mindanao University (CMU), Gretl Rae Pescuela and Pamela Joy Orias, are gaining specialized research experience through international internships in Taiwan, to strengthen their expertise in plant systematics, molecular biology, and biodiversity research.
Pescuela completed her internship at National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) in Hsinchu on October 7, 2026, while Orias continues her internship at National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) in Kaohsiung until October 30, 2026. Both are pursuing their PhDs in Plant Biology and participated in the International Internship Pilot Program (IIPP), which offers international students short-term research training at Taiwanese universities and research institutions.
At NTHU, Pescuela conducted dissertation research on the systematics of the genus Elaphoglossum under the mentorship of Prof. Li-Yaung Kuo at the Fern Laboratory. Her training covered molecular biology, microscopy, herbarium studies, fieldwork, and bioinformatics, including DNA extraction, Direct PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA library preparation, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) specimen preparation. She also joined fieldwork at Huisun Forest in Taichung and herbarium examination at TAIF, and received training in genome and transcriptome assembly and annotation.
Reflecting on the experience, Pescuela said, “These experiences have strengthened my skills in research organization, collaboration, and scientific documentation,” adding that the training helped her become more independent and confident in integrating laboratory, field, morphological, and computational approaches.
Meanwhile, Orias is conducting research on the reproductive and developmental biology of the rare Philippine quillwort, Isoetes philippinensis Merr. & Perry, at NSYSU under the mentorship of Prof. Tzu-Tong Kao’s Pteridology and Phycology Laboratory. Her training includes anatomical techniques, advanced imaging methods, and plant physiological studies.
Beyond laboratory work, Orias has also explored Taiwanese culture and daily life. She described the experience as “…a wonderful balance of learning, research, and experiencing a new culture,” with local food and visits to places around Kaohsiung making her stay memorable.
The students’ experiences highlight how international research placements strengthen research capacity, encourage knowledge exchange, and build professional networks. Exposure to different research practices may also support future collaboration in plant biodiversity and conservation.
Their international research experiences align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through advanced research training; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through exposure to specialized research methods and facilities; SDG 15 (Life on Land) through research relevant to plant biodiversity and conservation; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through cross-border academic collaboration.
CMU PhD Plant Biology adviser Dr. Fulgent Coritico welcomed the opportunity, saying he was happy that the students could gain research experience in Taiwan, learn from experts, and strengthen their skills in their fields of specialization. “May this experience inspire greater discoveries and brighter futures!” he said. Through the IIPP, Pescuela and Orias are developing specialized research skills and academic connections between CMU and Taiwanese institutions. Their experiences demonstrate how international research opportunities broaden students’ perspectives and prepare them to contribute to the global scientific community. [Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from Gretl Rae Pescuela and Pamela Joy Orias, PhD in Plant Biology students]
