PhD in Developmental Biology, Harvard University, USA

BS in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin - Madison, USA

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My lab is driven by the creative potential and utility of RNA. We operate at the intersection of synthetic biology and disease, engineering controllable RNA technologies for the next generation of diagnostics and therapeutics. I'm tickled by how creative science can be, and am particularly invigorated by interdisciplinary projects and the privilege of brainstorming with scientists and engineers to build new ideas from the ground up.

 

I never imagined I would be a scientist but jumped at the chance to experience life overseas when I was offered an EDB scholarship to study Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. There, I was fortunate to meet Prof Marv Wickens as my undergraduate advisor, who recruited me to work on PUF RNA-binding proteins in his lab. After a summer as a CSHL URP working on viral RNA trafficking with Prof Dave Jackson, I decided to pursue a PhD at Harvard under an A*STAR Scholarship, working with Prof Michael Levin on roles for ion channels in developmental patterning. Returning back to Singapore, I came back to my RNA roots in my postdoc with Prof Stephen Cohen on microRNAs in neurodegeneration, before starting my lab at IMCB.

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We are committed to building a supportive and intellectually rigorous environment that values collaboration, integrity and growth. If you are a motivated trainee or ECR who enjoys creative deep thinking and experimental rigor, and are interested in RNA therapeutics and gene regulation, we welcome you to join us!

Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore

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Master of Technology in Biotechnology, Anna University, India

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Bachelor of Technology in Biotechnology, Anna University, India

 

Project: Ribozyme-based technologies for diagnostics and therapeutics​

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The domain of nucleic acid has always fascinated me. I obtained my doctoral degree from the National University of Singapore for my research on identifying the role of small non-coding RNA, piRNA, and its associated proteins in biological processes related to the brain. In my post-doctoral training, I wanted to focus on developing technologies that have translational potential to benefit people suffering from various disease conditions. Excitingly, my current work on RNA therapeutics aligns with my interest. Besides science, I enjoy spending time in nature (basically Opacarophile) and have a newfound passion for food photography and portrait sketching!

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EMAIL

Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Hons),

National University of Singapore, Singapore

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Project: Ribozyme-based technologies and RNA modifications​

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I am a fresh graduate from the National University of Singapore with a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering). I enjoy working on interdisciplinary projects together with people of different expertise. The collision and integration of ideas from different minds has never failed to amaze me. As part of my resolution for the year, I have been trying to read a variety books during my free time these days and I also enjoy watching thriller and crime films.

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EMAIL

PhD in Neuroscience, University College London, UK

BSc in Biomedical Science, University College London, UK

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PROJECT: RNA delivery for in vivo gene regulation ​

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I graduated from University College London with a PhD in Neuroscience, the research focus for my PhD and 1st post-doc was to discover the novel genes involved in nociception pathways and understand their analgesic potential using gene therapy. In addition, I also worked with congenital insensitivity to pain patients to screen for potential disease-causing genes that is important for pain sensing. Subsequently, I joined another group that is working on the development of potential gene therapy to treat neuromuscular disease. I have strong interest in gene therapy, and this is fits well with my current project in the group. Beside science, I enjoy cooking, gardening and museums. 

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EMAIL

BS in Life Sciences and Statistics,

National University of Singapore

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PROJECT: Fluorescent RNA sensors ​

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Hi, everyone! I have just graduated from NUS with Life Sciences/Statistics double major. My research experiences include genetic engineering of filamentous fungi for heterologous protein production and characterization of a dual-role telomeric protein/transcriptional regulator. Currently, my interests are all about RNA technology, protein biochemistry, and cancer biology. I hope to contribute to the advancement of molecular therapeutics. Outside the lab, I spend my spare time as a volunteer competitive biology tutor, where I equip students for the national biology olympiad. I also enjoy hiking, gaming, listening to music, and reading music journalism, specifically modern Japanese pop. Please hit me up if you want to exchange music playlists :)

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EMAIL

MPhil, Ph.D. in Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), Hong Kong

BSc in Chemical Engineering, Ho Chi Minh University of Technology – Vietnam National University (HCMUT), Vietnam

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PROJECT: Massively parallel sequencing of functional RNA modalities

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Hi, everyone!

I completed my postgraduate research in Hong Kong, and I am happy to embark on a new journey with Sherry’s group. During my PhD studies, I focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of RNA and protein interactions. I am fascinated by the diversity of the RNA world, especially considering that its building blocks are just four nucleotides: A, U, G, and C. My six years of training in Hong Kong taught me that research can be “painful” sometimes. However, I believe just like running “Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional” - Haruki Murakami, I choose to enjoy every moment doing research. In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and cycling. I also have a passion for reading, so feel free to share your favourite books with me!

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EMAIL

PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Nanjing University, China

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BSc in Chemistry, Fuzhou University, China

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PROJECT: RNA delivery for in vivo gene regulation ​

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My PhD research focused on the proximity labeling and manipulation of glycosylated biomolecules. Discovering the many perspectives from which we can explore glycan biology has inspired me to incorporate my glycan-driven interests into the RNA realm, where glycoRNA is emerging as a new frontier. Currently, I am working on an RNA delivery project and aim to investigate how this naturally occurring “sweet” component (glycan) may influence neuroscience and contribute to the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Outside the lab, I am a fan of classical music, and relocating to Singapore has provided me with more opportunities to attend live concerts. I have also recently developed an interest in snorkeling and hope to try diving someday.

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EMAIL

Bsc in Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University

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PROJECT: New ribozymes and Assay automation

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Previously I worked on uncovering protein–protein interactions in the immune system during my FYP at SIGN. I’m fascinated by how molecular switches shape cellular behaviour, and I’m excited to venture into RNA biology and contribute to translational research, where molecular discoveries become real treatments. Outside of work, I’m an ardent fan of musicals and theatre. I also have a tiny ghost toy on my desk that I craft hats for, so feel free to suggest ideas for its next hat!

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EMAIL

Bsc in Bioengineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

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PROJECT: Prime editing applications

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I am a fresh graduate from NTU majoring in Bioengineering. I have some experience in gene editing research, as well as protein production and purification. My interests include gene editing technologies, protein engineering and RNA biology. Outside of the lab, I love watching anime and reading manga, as well as listening to Jpop.

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EMAIL