Bridging Clinical Practice and Precision Health: Dr. Divya's Journey

2 June 2025

With over a decade of experience as a gynaecologist and reproductive medicine consultant in India, Dr. Divya has helped countless couples on their fertility journeys. Yet, she often saw firsthand how similar treatments could lead to vastly different outcomes in her patients.

The Turning Point: Questioning One-Size-Fits-All Medicine

"That was really the turning point for me," Dr. Divya recalls. "I started to question the 'one-size-fits-all' approach in clinical care. I wanted to understand the biological diversity we were overlooking—and the MSc Precision Health and Medicine programme felt like the ideal way to bridge that gap."

Transitioning from hands-on clinical work to a curriculum rich in data science and genomics was initially daunting. "It was overwhelming at first, but the programme is structured to build your skills step-by-step. Conversations with faculty, who understood both the clinical and research worlds, kept me motivated. The programme Co-Director, A/Prof Kenneth Ban, a clinician himself, told me, 'Expertise comes with time—persevere and you'll get there faster than you think.' That really encouraged me."

A pivotal moment arrived when Dr. Divya explored how artificial intelligence could predict IVF success rates. "Suddenly, everything I was learning connected directly to my clinical practice. These weren't just abstract concepts—they were practical tools to transform patient care."

Discovering New Horizons: Unexpected Career Opportunities

The MSc PHM programme opened doors Dr. Divya hadn't anticipated. "I discovered new career paths in research, clinical applications, the health-tech industry, and innovation. It's so much more than just an academic qualification—it prepares you for a wide range of future-ready opportunities."

When asked what advice she would give to other clinicians considering the programme, Dr. Divya is unequivocal:

Looking Forward: Integrating Skills for Better Patient Outcomes

Looking ahead, Dr. Divya aims to integrate her clinical expertise with new skills in data science, particularly in improving IVF protocols, embryo selection, and personalized fertility treatments.

"My goal is to make fertility care more effective and patient-centred by harnessing AI and precision medicine."

Her message to other clinicians: "Precision health isn't just the future—it's happening right now. If you want to be at the forefront of change, this programme will give you the knowledge and tools you need."