Monash medical students showcase BMedSc(Hons) brain and heart research at Korea University international conference
L-R: Seiyon Sivakumar and Cyrus Raki attending the conference
Two Monash Medical School students, Cyrus Raki and Seiyon Sivakumar, were selected to showcase their BMedSc(Hons) research at the prestigious 8th Korea University (KU) International Medical Student Research Conference in December 2025.
Every year, up to two final-year Monash medicine students who have completed the optional intercalated one-year research degree, Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) [BMedSc(Hons)], are selected to represent Monash University at the KU conference, with all travel expenses paid by KU.
Cyrus presented his BMedSc(Hons) research which compared the Spetzler-Martin and Supplemented Spetzler-Martin grading systems for predicting postoperative outcomes following brain arteriovenous malformation surgery, which was published in the Journal of Clinical Neuroscience.
Supervised by renowned neurosurgeon, Professor Leon Lai, Cyrus also presented his BMedSc(Hons) work at conferences in Japan and Dubai prior to attending the KU conference.
‘This opportunity enabled me to network with researchers from across the globe and share insights into our research projects, career aspirations, and plans for future research endeavours,’ said Cyrus.
Reflecting on his Honours year, Cyrus described it as intellectually rewarding, helping him develop key research skills including critical literature analysis, statistical evaluation, data visualisation and scientific communication.
‘I would definitely recommend the BMedSc(Hons) program to anyone interested in research, even those without prior experience. You never know where your interests lie until you immerse yourself in the opportunity,’ said Cyrus.
Seiyon presented his BMedSc(Hons) research investigating coronary inflammation in patients with, and without, standard cardiovascular risk factors, using a novel computed tomography imaging biomarker known as pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation. His research was published in the Heart, Lung and Circulation journal.
‘It was a privilege to represent Monash at the KU conference. Presenting my research as an oral presentation was a valuable opportunity to receive feedback and engage in discussion around my findings,’ said Seiyon.
‘It was also an excellent opportunity to network with students from South Korea and around the world, and to learn about a diverse range of research.’
Seiyon was supervised by esteemed cardiologists Associate Professor Dennis Wong and Associate Professor Andrew Lin.
Cyrus and Seiyon’s participation highlights the strength of Monash Medical School’s BMedSc(Hons) program in enabling students to contribute to medical research early in their careers, while fostering international engagement through opportunities such as the KU International Medical Student Research Conference.