This project, titled “The Role of Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 2 (USP2) in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: Elucidating Signaling Pathway Involvement Using Inhibitors,” aims to investigate the oncogenic role of USP2 in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). USP2, a deubiquitinating enzyme, regulates the stability of key oncogenic proteins, including MCL-1 and Cyclin D1. This study will utilize specific signaling pathway inhibitors to delineate the functional impact of USP2 on cellular behavior and therapeutic response in UTUC cell lines. The expected outcomes include elucidation of USP2-mediated molecular mechanisms, validation of its potential as a therapeutic target, and the cultivation of early-career researchers with international and interdisciplinary perspectives.

The program will recruit one highly motivated master’s student or recent graduates in medical and life science disciplines from Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and India. The internship period is scheduled from June to December 2026, with lasting three to four months and allowing flexible adjustment based on research progress. This Ministry of Education (MOE)-funded program provides a monthly living stipend of NT$15,000~20,000 per participant. Health insurance and accommodation fees are not included and must be covered by the applicant.

The project integrates academic coursework with laboratory training. Participants will enroll in molecular biotechnology–related courses at Kaohsiung Medical University (KMU) and engage in hands-on research within the Department of Biochemistry. Training will include cell culture techniques, inhibitor-based experimental design, gene and protein expression analysis, and signaling pathway validation. Additional components include scientific English communication, research ethics training, participation in academic seminars, and cultural exchange activities to strengthen both research competency and cross-cultural collaboration.

The anticipated outcomes include:

1. Establishment of a molecular framework for USP2 function in UTUC;

2. Enhanced understanding among international participants of Taiwan’s biomedical research environment, fostering future academic engagement in Taiwan; and

3. Strengthened international visibility of KMU in biomedical research.