How I found an internship at Systems Biology Ireland
by Juan Garcia
28 April 2025
My name is Juan García, and I am a PhD student at the Complutense University of Madrid. I recently completed a three-month research internship at Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), working in the group led by Dr. David Gómez. In this blog post, I’d like to share why I chose SBI for my internship, how I secured funding, and what the overall experience was like—both scientifically and personally.
When I began looking for an international research group to host my internship, I aimed to find a lab with strong expertise in proteomics and systems biology, which are key components of my doctoral project. My supervisor, Dr. Blanca Herrera, who had previously worked with Dr. Gómez, suggested exploring the work being done at SBI. After reviewing the group’s publications and ongoing projects, I became particularly interested in their approaches to proteomics data integration and the application of advanced computational tools to extract biological insights from complex datasets. These topics aligned closely with the direction I wanted to take in my thesis.
Following an initial exchange of emails, Dr. Gómez and I discussed the possibility of a short-term collaboration and designed a research plan for my stay. Once the scientific framework was in place, I turned my attention to funding. I applied for the (opens in a new window)EMBO Scientific Exchange Grant, which supports international research visits in the life sciences. The application process was straightforward, and I was fortunate to be awarded the grant within two months of applying. The funding covered my travel and living expenses, making the internship financially feasible.
One of the main logistical challenges I encountered was finding short-term accommodation in Dublin. Housing in the city is in high demand, and prices can be steep—something future interns should definitely consider when planning their stay. However, with some advance planning, I was able to find a room near University College Dublin (UCD), which made commuting easy and allowed me to enjoy a comfortable stay.
Scientifically, my experience at SBI was highly rewarding. The work environment is collaborative and intellectually stimulating, with well-equipped laboratories and excellent shared facilities. During my time there, I collaborated closely with the Proteomics Unit, gaining hands-on experience in workflows and analytical strategies that will significantly enrich my doctoral research. The support from both the technical and research staff was invaluable, and I appreciated how open and accessible everyone was.
Beyond the lab, living in Dublin added another layer of value to my internship. The city is vibrant and full of cultural opportunities. I enjoyed exploring its historical landmarks, music scene, and green spaces. Ireland’s natural beauty is easily accessible, with plenty of hiking trails and weekend destinations only a short trip away. Dublin also has a strong international community, and I found it relatively easy to meet other students and young professionals through social events and local groups.
In conclusion, I would strongly recommend considering SBI for a research internship. It offers a dynamic environment for scientific learning and professional growth, especially in the fields of systems biology and proteomics. For me, the experience has been a turning point in my PhD journey, both in terms of expanding my technical skillset and gaining new perspectives on how collaborative, interdisciplinary science can be done.