UNAIR NEWS – Arya Satya Rajanagara, a graduate of Universitas Airlangga’s (UNAIR) Faculty of Medicine, has reached a significant academic achievement. He is currently pursuing a PhD at China Medical University (CMU), Taiwan, under the prestigious Ministry of Education Taiwan Scholarship, a fully funded program for international students.

At CMU, Rajanagara is concentrating on molecular metabolism research related to breast cancer. “My study focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer metabolism. Through this research, we aim to enhance cancer therapies and make them more effective, considering breast cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide,” Rajanagara shared.

Innovative research focus

Rajanagara’s work delves deeply into molecular research, employing advanced tools to examine cancer metabolism, with a specific emphasis on breast cancer. “The core objective is to make cancer cell therapies more accessible and effective,” he added.

Breast cancer continues to pose a global health challenge and is among the top causes of mortality in Indonesia. Rajanagara underscored the critical need for his research. “Not only in Indonesia but globally, cancer is a significant cause of death. This makes cancer research highly pertinent to present medical needs,” he said.

Collaborative efforts

Rajanagara’s research involves extensive collaboration with international and local experts, including his supervisor, Prof. Ming Tan, an American academic. “We also collaborate with the Faculty of Medicine at UNAIR. One of our lab members, an Indonesian, is a lecturer at FK UNAIR. Our lab operates on a system where projects are divided and partnered. Everyone contributes to the work, and we all take part in the publication process,” Rajanagara explained.

Rajanagara hopes his research will significantly contribute to the development of cancer therapies and the advancement of medical knowledge. “In the future, I aim to bring the expertise I’ve gained in Taiwan to UNAIR and Indonesia. I also plan to pursue postdoctoral research before returning as a full-time lecturer,” he stated.

Rajanagara’s academic journey exemplifies his dedication to advancing medical research, particularly in oncology. His efforts pave the way for breakthroughs that could transform the medical landscape in Indonesia and beyond.

Author: Zahwa Najiba Putri Malika

Editor: Yulia Rohmawati