Scholars of A*STAR: Dr Chng Shuyun, SIMTech

The A*STAR Graduate Academy provides scholarships and fellowships to enable young aspiring scientific talent to pursue their passion in science, and prepare them for a rewarding career in R&D.

Meet our scholars and find out how an A*STAR scholarship has helped them along their research and development journey.

Dr Chng Shuyun, Scientist, A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech)

Q: What inspired you to pursue this field of research?

A: Prior to my PhD studies, I was a research engineer at SIMTech, where I had the opportunity to work on various industry-related projects on surface coatings. This area of translational research gives me a great sense of satisfaction and motivation, seeing how companies are using the technology we developed.

I want to learn and contribute more to this area of research. Besides, I love the unlimited possibilities when it comes to chemical reactions and formulation. Thus, I decided to pursue a PhD in Chemistry. After graduation, I re-joined and continued my R&D journey with SIMTech Surface Technology Group.

Now, I work with a supportive and like-minded team to translate more surface technologies from lab to industry, and make these technologies more accessible to people and industry.

Q: What does the A*STAR scholarship mean to you?

A: I am grateful to A*STAR for the scholarship. It allowed me to pursue the science I am passionate about, enabled me to venture and study overseas to see the world, and helped me to jumpstart my career in this research area. I enjoy my work, as it is very fulfilling and satisfying. There are challenges to be solved, frontiers to be pushed and never a dull or mundane day. More importantly, I am able to contribute to the industry and Singapore in every little way I can.

Q: If you could invent something for the betterment of the world, what would it be?

A: A super coating where you can choose the functions you want, and coat on the surface you need. Imagine adding material X into a coating concentrate. We can coat it on a piece of 3D printed metal and transform it into an implant with slow-drag release biocompatible surface. On the other hand, if we add material Y, it can become a dust and water repellent coating to be used on solar panels and architectural glass. This would be a versatile and robust coating platform technology that can transform any ordinary parts to have extraordinary functions!

Dr Chng Shuyun (front row, third from right) at her team Lunch in December 2019

The Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech) develops high-value manufacturing technology and human capital to enhance the competitiveness of Singapore’s manufacturing industry. It collaborates with various multinational and local companies in the precision engineering, medtech, aerospace, automotive, marine, oil & gas, electronics, semiconductor, logistics, and other sectors.

Keen to pursue a career in STEM? Start your journey with an A*STAR scholarship today!