A*STAR is at the forefront of impactful research, channelling its innovative endeavours to bring tangible benefits to our economy and society. Scholars Dr. Shermin Goh and Dr. Chia Bing Shao, backed by the National Science Scholarship (BS-PhD), exemplify this quest as they break geographical boundaries with their pioneering work in innovation and research.

Armed with a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Organic Chemistry from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Chemistry from Imperial College London, Shermin now leads the Functional & Dynamic Polymers Lab at A*STAR’s Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE). Her innovative work revolves around functional and dynamic polymers, with a focus on sensing and sustainability. As a Senior Scientist and Group Leader, she leads a team of research scientists and engineers, envisions, and manages research projects, and serves as a mentor to staff and students.

On the other front, Bing Shao is a Scientist in the Lab of Synthetic Biology and Genome Editing Therapeutics at A*STAR’s Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), contributing significantly to the development of cutting-edge nucleic acid therapeutics. Holding a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology from Johns Hopkins University, as well as a PhD in Virology from Harvard University, he plays a pivotal role in advancing A*STAR’s mission to tackle critical challenges and elevate the quality of life through his research efforts.

Shermin, what sparked your passion for Chemistry?

I have always been interested in Chemistry. After receiving my first science experiment book, I promptly set up a “laboratory” at home, comprising empty jars and kitchen chemicals. When I grew out of kitchen chemicals, I knew I had to take my interest further. This led me to sign up for research internships. The exhilarating experience of synthesising new chemicals which have the potential to improve our lives cemented my interest in research. I am still as excited today when myself, my team members, or my interns make new discoveries in the lab!

Bing Shao, how did you get interested in the fields of molecular and cellular biology as well as virology?

Resident Evil. Just kidding. I was intrigued by infectious diseases and their impact on human lives. Take past pandemics such as the Black Death plague, 1918 Spanish Flu, and HIV/ AIDS for example – it’s mind-boggling how something so minuscule and invisible to the naked eye can wreak that much havoc in such an insidious manner. Even more recently, look at how COVID-19 took so many lives and brought the world to a grinding stop. Sure, we should not anthropomorphise pathogens, but the idea of a never-ending arms race between microbes and the human body also fascinates me.

How did the National Science Scholarship enhance your academic experiences?

Shermin: During my undergraduate years, the scholarship offered many internship opportunities at A*STAR research institutes, which enabled me to build up my scientific skills and find my research interest.

When applying to graduate school, the funding and prestige of the scholarship opened doors to many top research labs. During my DPhil, it allowed me to travel to conferences to present my work and learn from distinguished professors and peers in my research area.

After my postgraduate studies, I was offered the opportunity to pursue a postdoctoral stint. I was really inspired by Prof. Sir Ben Feringa and went to work with him at the University of Groningen. Although I returned to Singapore just before the announcement of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016, I can still say that I worked with a Nobel laureate!

Bing Shao: The first thing that comes to mind is the exposure to an open culture that combines both academic rigour and free-flowing exchange of ideas at the top academic institutes. I got to meet some of the most brilliant minds and be in awe of their sense of curiosity and passion for their work. Just listening to and interacting with such people can be inspiring and invigorating. People are also happy to bounce ideas, and they are not afraid to dream big, test fast and move on quickly if something doesn’t work.

That’s amazing! Can you tell us more about your work at A*STAR?

Shermin: Today, my research is on functional and dynamic polymers for sensing and sustainability. Our focus is on Covalent Adaptable Networks (CANs), stimuli-responsive network polymers which are multi-functional whilst also being durable, strong, and yet inherently recyclable. My view is that CANs are improved versions of today’s plastics – not only are they more sustainable, they also offer better performance!

I am the Group Leader of the Functional & Dynamic Polymers Lab at A*STAR’s Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE). My work is extremely varied, with activities ranging from performing experiments in the lab to supervising students, from planning and managing research projects to meetings and discussions with internal and external stakeholders.

Bing Shao: As a Scientist in the Lab of Synthetic Biology and Genome Editing Therapeutics, we work on nucleic acid therapeutics and the development of relevant technologies. Hence, a significant portion of my time is spent at the research bench. When I’m not in the lab, I will be reading scientific literature and attending seminars to keep abreast of the latest research, scoping potential projects, designing experiments to test hypotheses, collecting and analysing data, and preparing our findings to communicate to other scientists and stakeholders.

From time to time, I mentor undergraduate interns in the lab too – both in terms of technical skills and scientific thinking – hopefully, this empowers them as they embark on their own careers.

What do you find most fulfilling about your job?

Shermin: I am concerned about environmental issues such as plastics pollution and climate change. I see our research on CANs as a way to contribute towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Being able to apply my training and research to issues which I care about is extremely fulfilling.

Also, as part of my work, I directly supervise researchers and students. In addition to teaching technical skills, I help them to discover their research interest and achieve their career goals. This aspect of my work is also highly rewarding.

Bing Shao: Our technology development work could potentially translate to widespread adoption in other research labs and enable others to make discoveries that could one day translate into the clinic. And that is amazing to think about. Besides enabling others’ research, I also hope to translate the research we do into the real world and to impact patient care someday. I’m currently broadening my skill sets and experiences beyond the bench so that I can gain an understanding and deeper appreciation of what it takes to translate research findings from the bench to bedside.

Outside of research, I also contribute towards building a vibrant Research & Development ecosystem - by creating networking and up skilling opportunities for fellow Early Career Researchers, nurturing the next generation of young scientists, and actively engaging with other researchers and stakeholders here. While Singapore is already gaining global recognition for its excellent science, there is also a growing emphasis on translating the findings in our labs to economic and social impact, and I’m glad to be part of it.