Jessica (Jaehee) Chun

Ralph A. Lewin Scholarship in Medical Sciences

Joining us from: Auckland, New Zealand

​MSc in Integrated Immunology (2024)

I have a strong passion for immunology in the context of viral diseases and cancer, with a particular interest in advancing vaccine and cell therapy technologies and improving their accessibility to the populations that need them most. I completed my undergraduate and Honours degrees at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, where I studied Biomedical Science, specialising in Infection & Immunity. During my Honours, I conducted a year-long research project under Professor Rod Dunbar and Dr Alicia Didsbury, investigating strategies to optimise a clinical protocol for manufacturing adoptive cell therapies against advanced melanoma. Realising the complex scientific and logistical considerations required to implement immunotherapies in the clinic, I was driven to pursue the MSc in Integrated Immunology at Oxford to develop a deeper and more holistic understanding of the immune system and its therapeutic potential.

My time at the University of Oxford so far has been intellectually intense but incredibly rewarding. I have thoroughly enjoyed learning directly from world-leading experts, being constantly challenged to think critically, and gaining direct exposure to Oxford’s cutting-edge immunology research. As part of my current project under Professor Teresa Lambe at the Oxford Vaccine Group, I am investigating novel adenovirus vector designs to improve their safety and immunogenicity — an exciting opportunity that has ignited my interest in vaccine development. Beyond academics, the sense of community at St Cross College and among my classmates has made my first year living abroad truly special. Since arriving last September, I have formed numerous lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories, and I feel that I have grown tremendously as both a scientist and an individual.

I am thus deeply grateful to the generous donor of the Ralph A. Lewin Scholarship, Lanna Cheng, and to the Clarendon Fund for making this journey possible and allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my academic and personal development.

Outside of my studies, I am an avid solo traveller who has backpacked around 29 countries, with many more destinations still on my list. When I am home, I enjoy watching films. When I’m out, I like hiking and discovering cute local cafés to study in or unwind.