Nationality: Singapore
Current Job: Assistant Professor, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Graduation: Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Year 2009
Undergraduate: National University of Singapore, Singapore
"The brain bonus from scientific discovery is priceless!"
In retrospect, would you still have chosen to do a PhD? Why?
Yes. It has been a natural course for me as I enjoy the process of ‘investigating’. Moreover, a PhD to me is a passport to the scientific world.
On hindsight, would you still have chosen NUS to do your PhD?
Of course!
On hindsight, would you have chosen the same research topic for your PhD?
Certainly!
On hindsight, would you have chosen the same research supervisor for your PhD?
For sure!
How did NUS prepare you for your career?
I was an undergraduate in NUS and had experience with 2 UROPS projects before undertaking my FYP. The cumulative experience together with my PhD has geared me with skillsets and independence.
How did your experiences as a graduate student shape and guide you in your current career?
As a faculty, my work involves education and research and often times, I reflected on what worked and what didn’t work during my own training, and harness my experience in the way I teach and would like my students to learn.
Suggest 2 or 3 things that graduate students should do to prepare for their professional careers?
Plan ahead, time doesn’t wait for you.
Remember, you are not walking alone in this journey – be open to discuss any issues you face, any time.
Name 2-3 things you wished you had been told when you started graduate school?
It is important that interest between students and supervisors align, and hence all the more, do not fear talking to your supervisor.
Don’t rush to finish your PhD. But also don’t procrastinate and rush only at the end. Space it out!
What advice would you give someone considering doing his/her PhD at NUS?
Only you know best what you want. Follow your heart and just do it!
Briefly share something fun in your graduate journey at NUS that you remember.
Fun is when we make discoveries. Fun is also when we joked around in the lab, and went out as friends for meals and even a run! Being a student is actually the best time.
Any other words of wisdom to share?
The brain bonus from scientific discovery is priceless!