Samson Ali
Nationality: Ghana
Current Job: Assistant Professor, Okayama University, Japan
Graduation: School of Medicine, Year 2019
Undergraduate: University of Ghana, Ghana
In retrospect, would you still have chosen to do a PhD? Why?
Yes, I would have have still chosen a PhD. In order to be effective and achieve my goal of becoming a world-renowned scientist to advance scientific research and education in Africa, I recognized the indispensability of a PhD. Although I had gained some research experience during my masters degree in Leeds, a PhD was necessary in sharpening my analytical and research skills to be able to achieve my aim.
On hindsight, would you still have chosen NUS to do your PhD?
Yes I would still choose NUS. Apart from NUS programmes standing out with emphasis on research and analytical skills as well as a good learning atmosphere, the international exposure experienced in Singapore was awesome. In a changing world, studying in NUS offered me the opportunity to interact and build connections with many internationals. In Singapore, it seems like all continents are represented!
On hindsight, would you have chosen the same research topic for your PhD?
Yes, I would! My PhD research topic was great as well. It offered me the opportunity to learn and apply cutting-edge structural biology techniques such as x-ray crystallography and cryoEM.
How did NUS prepare you for your career?
During the PhD programme in NUS, my departments at school of medicine organized career oriented courses where mock interviews, etc were conducted to equip me well in my career pursuit.
Also been part of Biochemistry Graduate Students Association (BIGSA) offered me the opportunity to learn other personal development skills which are essential in my career.
How did your experiences as a graduate student shape and guide you in your current career?
The state-of-the-art techniques acquired during my PhD in addition to the career oriented courses and the great mentor-ship from my supervisors adequately prepared me for my current career. International conferences and internship have also contributed to my training and guidance in my career path.
Suggest 2 or 3 things that graduate students should do to prepare for their professional careers?
- 1. In addition to excellence in your research work, the skills acquired during the PhD is very vital in professional career
- 2. Participate in extra-curricular activities such as organizing departmental programmes, etc
- 3. Build network
Suggest 2 or 3 things that graduate students should do to prepare for their professional careers?
- 1. PhD journey could be challenging
- 2. Making the most of every learning and personal development opportunity in graduate school
What advice would you give someone considering doing his/her PhD at NUS?
PhD at NUS offers you a variety of great opportunities for personal development. Take advantage of these opportunities!
Briefly share something fun in your graduate journey at NUS that you remember
I remember been part of the biochemist-style dance by BIGSA during our department’s 90th anniversary celebrations! (Click to watch video)
Any other words of wisdom to share?
My favourite quote in life is: “We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.” by Chuck Swindoll
Do not neglect your spiritual connection, especially in challenging moments – in my case, the God factor!