SSC2025 Programme Booklet
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CONTENT PAGE
WELCOME MESSAGE ................................................................................................................... 3 CONFERENCE FLOORPLAN .......................................................................................................... 4 EXHIBITION FLOORPLAN .............................................................................................................. 5 CONFERENCE PROGRAMME ........................................................................................................ 6 OVERVIEW OF SESSIONS ........................................................................................................... 11 PARTNERS AND SPONSORS ........................................................................................................ 27 SSC COMMITTEES ...................................................................................................................... 28
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WELCOME MESSAGE
We are delighted to welcome you to the Singapore Scientific Conference (SSC) 2025, a premier international event bringing together over 1,200 delegates from Singapore and around the world.
As the key meeting point for field experts, researchers, industry professionals, public service leaders, and students, SSC2025 offers a unique platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange among academia, the medical research community, and industry partners. The theme for SSC2025 is “Forging A Sustainable Future Through Science & Technology”, offering a global platform to discuss the latest scientific advancements and foster collaborations to address pressing sustainability challenges in energy, environment, health, and manufacturing. Commemorating Singapore’s 60th anniversary, the conference marks our nation’s six decades of scientific progress and innovation, and is organised by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A * STAR), with support from National Research Foundation (NRF), and in participation with Singapore research ecosystem partners: Nanyang Technological University (NTU), National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), Singapore Management University (SMU), NHG Health, National University Health System (NUHS), and SingHealth.
We look forward to welcoming you to SSC2025 in Singapore!
Steering Committee SSC2025
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CONFERENCE FLOORPLAN
Conference Venue:
Sands Expo & Convention Centre 10 Bayfront Ave, Level 4, Singapore 018956
Level 4
Plenary
Keynote Tracks
Breakout Tracks
Concurrent Activities
Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom
Roselle-Simpor 4601 Peony 4504 Peony 4401
Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom Roselle-Simpor 4601
Exhibition Simpor Junior Ballroom & Roselle Junior Ballroom
Peony 4504 Peony 4401
Poster Showcase Roselle Junior Ballroom & Pre-function Area
Simpor Junior 4813 Roselle Junior 4613 Peony Junior 4511 Peony Junior 4411 Orchid Junior 4311
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EXHIBITION FLOORPLAN
EXHIBITORS
A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7
E1 E2 E4 E5
AXIL SCIENTIFIC PTE LTD DELTA ELECTRONICS
CADIT
NHG HEALTH
METTLER TOLEDO
ESCIENCE ENERGY
LABIVF
BD
GATAN AND EDAX
F1 F2
BIO LABORATORIES PTE LTD
A*STAR RESEARCH SUPPORT CENTRE
KEYENCE SINGAPORE
A*STAR GRADUATE ACADEMY
B1
G1
EINST TECHNOLOGY PTE LTD
BMEMAT, SCHOOL OF BME, SHANDONG UNIVERSITY OPTICORE INNOVATIONS PTE LTD SUNTAR ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY PTE LTD
B2 B3
G2 G3
ELSEVIER
CAREPOINT INT. UNIGLOVES
G4
CLARIVATE
C1 C2
THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC WATERS PACIFIC PTE LTD
D1 D2
GLOBAL COLD CHAIN SOLUTIONS SINGAPORE WINNER SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS PTE LTD
D3
PROMEGA
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CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
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CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
Day 1 - Monday, 8 December 2025
08:00am
Registration and Network Breakfast
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
08:45am
Conference Opening
09:00am
Welcome Remarks by Prof Andy Hor, Deputy Chief Executive (Research), A * STAR
09:10am
Opening Speech by Guest-of-Honour, Mr Heng Swee Keat, Chairman, NRF
09:20am
Plenary Lecture by Steven Chu (Stanford)
ROSELLE-SIMPOR 4601
PEONY RM 4504
PEONY 4401
Keynote Lecture by Evelyn Wang (MIT)
Keynote Lecture by Terry van Gevelt (SMU)
Keynote Lecture by Lukas Mayr (BASF)
10:05am
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Narrative Singapore Story
Thematic Forum
Environment
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Energy
Environment
Health
Health
10:40am
Parallel Invited Lectures Series
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
11:55am
Panel Discussion: Energy Beyond Fossil Fuels
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM • PRE-FUNCTION AREA
Lunchtime Industry Dialogue Session: From Science to Solutions
12:40pm
Network Lunch with Exhibition and Poster Showcase
ROSELLE-SIMPOR 4601
PEONY RM 4504
PEONY 4401
Keynote Lecture by Karl Ziemelis (Nature)
Keynote Lecture by Xiaogang Liu (NUS)
Keynote Lecture by Nicholas Long (ICL)
02:10pm
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Manufacturing
Energy
Environment
Health
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Health
Health
Environment
02:45pm
Parallel Oral Presentations
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM • PRE-FUNCTION AREA
3:55pm
Teabreak with Exhibition and Poster Showcase
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Thematic Forum
Energy
Manufacturing
Health
Energy
Energy
Environment
Environment
Manufacturing
04:20pm
Parallel Invited Lectures Series
06:05pm
End of Conference Day 1
ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM • PRE-FUNCTION AREA
06:00pm – 07:35pm
Poster Presentation and Judging
VIEW FULL PROGRAMME
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Day 2 - Tuesday, 9 December 2025
08:00am
Registration and Network Breakfast
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
08:30am
Opening Speech by Prof Tan Chorh Chuan
08:45am
Plenary Lecture by Sean de Cleene (SIT)
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM • PRE-FUNCTION AREA
09:25am
Teabreak with Exhibition and Poster Showcase
ROSELLE-SIMPOR 4601
PEONY RM 4504
PEONY 4401
Keynote Lecture by Choon Hong Tan (NTU)
Keynote Lecture by Tae-Eog Lee (KAIST)
Keynote Lecture by Huimin Zhao (UIUC)
09:50am
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Thematic Forum
Environment
Manufacturing
Energy
Health
Environment
Energy
Energy
Manufacturing
10:25am
Parallel Invited Lectures Series
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
11:40am
Panel Discussion: Innovation at Speed and Scale - Powering Translation through Global Collaboration
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM • PRE-FUNCTION AREA
Lunchtime Brownbag Session Steven Chu (Students Only)
12:25pm
Network Lunch with Exhibition and Poster Showcase
ROSELLE-SIMPOR 4601
PEONY RM 4504
PEONY 4401
Keynote Lecture by Nieng Yan (SMART)
Keynote Lecture by Xiaodong Chen (NTU)
Keynote Lecture by Walter Leitner (MPI CEC)
01:55pm
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Manufacturing
Energy
Environment
Health
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Health
Health
Environment
02:30pm
Parallel Oral Presentations
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM • PRE-FUNCTION AREA
3:40 pm
Teabreak with Exhibition and Poster Showcase
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Thematic Forum
Energy
Manufacturing
Health
Energy
Energy
Environment
Environment
Manufacturing
04:05pm
Parallel Invited Lectures Series
05:50pm
End of Conference Day 2
ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM • PRE-FUNCTION AREA
05:50pm – 07:20pm
Poster Presentation and Judging
VIEW FULL PROGRAMME
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Day 3 - Wednesday, 10 December 2025
08:00am
Registration and Network Breakfast
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
08:30am
Plenary Lecture by Vivian Yam (HKU)
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM
09:15am
Tea break with Exhibition
ROSELLE-SIMPOR 4601
PEONY RM 4504
PEONY 4401
Keynote Lecture by Shunsuke Chiba (NTU)
Keynote Lecture by Milena Corredig (Aarhus)
Keynote Lecture by Patrice Simon (Toulouse)
09:40am
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Thematic Forum
Energy
Manufacturing
Health
Environment
Energy
Health
Health
Mentorship
10:15am
Parallel Invited Lectures Series
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
11:30am
Panel Discussion: The Future of Scientific Talent - Nurturing the Next Generation for Impact
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM
Lunchtime Deep-Tech Ventures: Innovating Beyond the Lab
12:15pm
Network Lunch with Exhibition
ROSELLE-SIMPOR 4601
PEONY RM 4504
PEONY 4401
Keynote Lecture by Xian Jun Loh (A * STAR IMRE)
Keynote Lecture by Bin Liu (NUS)
Keynote Lecture by Aarti Tobin (Just Meat Protein)
01:45pm
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Manufacturing
Energy
Environment
Health
Energy
Energy
Health
Health
Environment
02:20pm
Parallel Oral Presentations
SIMPOR JUNIOR BALLROOM • ROSELLE JUNIOR BALLROOM
3:00 pm
Tea break with Exhibition
ROSELLE SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
ROSELLE JUNIOR 4613
ROSELLE SIMPOR 4601
SIMPOR JUNIOR 4813
PEONY JUNIOR 4511
PEONY JUNIOR 4411
ORCHID JUNIOR 4311
PEONY 4504
PEONY 4401
Thematic Forum
Energy
Manufacturing
Health
Energy
Energy
Environment
Environment
Manufacturing
03:25pm
Parallel Invited Lectures Series
ROSELLE-SIMPOR MAIN BALLROOM
04:55pm
Closing Plenary Lecture by Ernst Johan Kuipers (NTU)
05:35pm
Poster Prize Presentation
05:50pm
Conference Closing Remarks
05:55pm
End of Conference Day 2
MELATI BALLROOM
06:00pm
Conference Dinner (by invite)
VIEW FULL PROGRAMME
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OVERVIEW OF SESSIONS
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OVERVIEW OF SESSIONS
Day 1: Plenary Lecture
The challenges and opportunities of getting to net-zero GHG emissions Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 8 December 9:10am
Steven Chu Stanford University
Multiple industrial and agricultural revolutions have profoundly transformed the world, but these revolutions are changing the climate of Earth. Most of our energy sources and many of the materials we use are based on fossil-fuel. The challenges how to provide clean energy, water, air and food in a world of 8.2 billion people and projected to be 9.8 B by 2050 are formidable. After a brief summary of our current trajectory, I will discuss the progress, opportunities and challenges needed to achieve net-zero greenhouse emissions.
Day 1: Keynote Lecture (Parallel Session 1)
Presentation by Evelyn Wang Roselle-Simpor 4601 8 December 10:05am Evelyn Wang Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Coming Soon.
Operationalising Climate Projections through Downward Counterfactuals and Virtual Reality Peony 4504 8 December 10:05am
Terry van Gevelt Singapore Management University
Traditional methods of visualising and communicating future climate risks are largely ineffective, hindering proactive adaptation. A key challenge lies in making complex and uncertain climate data actionable for a diverse range of stakeholders. Our research offers a novel approach to this challenge by using downward counterfactual modelling calibrated with high resolution climate projections across three Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSPs). This allows us to stress-test Singapore’s built infrastructure to future climate impacts, including sea-level rise, pluvial flooding, and high-impact-low-likelihood events, and to identify the set of feasible adaptation solutions and their path dependencies. We visualise and communicate our downward counterfactuals through an immersive, interactive and dynamic virtual reality experience. Taken together, our approach presents a significant step forward in operationalising, visualising and communicating rigorous data on future climate projections to a diverse set of stakeholders.
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Green Transformation at BASF Peony 4401 8 December 10:05am
Lukas Mayr BASF SE
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century. Swift and resolute action is needed to ensure that the targets agreed in the Paris Climate Agreement can be achieved. BASF stands by this responsibility. We are working hard to significantly reduce our carbon footprint. Our goal is to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We aim to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. For this purpose, new process technologies, new raw material sources and new forms of energy supply are inevitable. How to cleverly combine existing assets, technologies, and infrastructure with innovative approaches to establish cost-effective, fast and sustainable transition concepts is defined in BASF’s “Winning Ways” strategy.
Day 1: Panel Discussion
Panel Discussion: Energy Beyond Fossil Fuels Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 8 December 11:55am
As the world accelerates its transition to a low-carbon future, new technologies and cross-sector partnerships are redefining how we generate, store, and utilise energy. This panel brings together thought leaders from academia, research, and industry to explore the frontiers of energy innovation from sustainable fuel chemistry and decarbonisation pathways to enabling policy and infrastructure. The discussion will highlight how Singapore and its partners are pioneering collaborative models that integrate science, engineering, and policy to move decisively beyond fossil fuels.
Andreas Peschel Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH
Walter Leitner Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion
Xin Wei Low Energy Market Authority
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Day 1: Lunchtime Dialogue
Lunchtime Industry Dialogue Session: From Science to Solutions Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 8 December 12:40pm
This session spotlights how businesses translate research and innovation into tangible growth and sustainability outcomes. Industry leaders share how science-driven partnerships have accelerated technology adoption, improved efficiency, and strengthened competitiveness. Through practical examples and open dialogue, participants will gain insights into how enterprises are leveraging R&D collaboration, digitalisation, and sustainability innovation to stay resilient in a rapidly changing global landscape. The session highlights the vital bridge between scientific discovery and industry application where research meets real-world impact.
Jeremy Koh ST Engineering
Weiguang Lan Suntar International Group
Vincent Gill Rolls Royce
Day 1: Keynote Lecture (Parallel Session 2)
Publishing Planet-saving Science – The Role of Journals in Advancing the Sustainability Agenda
Roselle-Simpor 4601 8 December 2:10pm
Karl Ziemelis Springer Nature
As an integral part of the scientific ecosystem, scientific journals play a critical role in nurturing and supporting the broader sustainability agenda. The more selective and/or higher impact the journal, arguably the bigger the role that it has to play – and the greater the responsibility for doing so. The output of such journals should not be simply a passive reflection of the current research landscape. Rather, they can control the direction and scope of their publication activities, choosing which research activities to actively encourage and promote. And, by lending their own authoritative editorial voice to the issues and research themes that potentially matter most for achieving a sustainable future, they can give greater visibility to – and hence wider awareness and appreciation of – such efforts at all levels of society. In my talk I will give an overview of some of the specific initiatives being undertaken at Nature (and in the wider Nature Portfolio of journals) to advance the sustainability agenda, with examples of the tangible impacts these are already having.
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Frequency-Converting Nanocrystals: A New Frontier in Nanophotonics Peony 4504 8 December 2:10pm
Xiaogang Liu National University of Singapore
Lanthanide-doped nanocrystals have emerged as a powerful class of optical materials for biological applications due to their unique photon management capabilities, including upconversion, downconversion, and persistent luminescence. These nanocrystals harness the ladder-like energy levels of lanthanide ions to achieve multi-wavelength emission with high photostability, deep tissue penetration, and minimal background autofluorescence, key attributes for advanced bioimaging and biosensing. Recent progress in the synthetic control, surface functionalization, and multiplexed encoding of lanthanide-doped nanocrystals has unlocked their potential for single-particle tracking, in vivo imaging, optogenetics, and theranostics. Moreover, their ability to transduce low-energy near-infrared excitation into visible or ultraviolet light enables spatiotemporally precise stimulation of biological processes, offering new avenues in neural modulation and controlled drug release. This talk highlights the latest breakthroughs in lanthanide nanocrystal-based biophotonics, emphasizing the mechanistic insights, design principles, and biomedical integration strategies that underpin their performance. I also discuss the emerging convergence of lanthanide nanocrystals with artificial intelligence, nanomedicine, and wearable technologies, envisioning a future where light-driven diagnostics and interventions are embedded into healthcare systems.
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Day 2: Plenary Lecture
Rewiring Sustainability: Navigating Complexity to Unlock the Power of Innovation Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 9 December 8:45am
Sean de Cleene Singapore Institute of Technology
Coming Soon.
Day 2: Keynote Lecture (Parallel Session 1)
Chiral Cationic Ion Pair Catalysis using Guanidiniums Roselle-Simpor 4601 9 December 9:50am
Choon Hong Tan Nanyang Technological University
Chiral cations have demonstrated exceptional efficacy as phase-transfer catalysts, particularly in conjunction with inorganic basic salts like hydroxides and carbonates in base-mediated reactions. Over the past decade, we have developed several chiral cation catalysts, notably pentanidium and bisguanidinium, which have significantly advanced the field. In this report, we explore their roles in ion-pair catalysis using three distinct types of anions. First, we examine the use of fluoride to generate hypervalent silicate intermediates and its pairing with chiral cations to facilitate enantioselective reactions. Next, we delve into reactions where chiral cations work synergistically with polyoxometalates, such as tungstate and molybdate, serving as co catalysts. Lastly, we highlight the ability of chiral cations to modulate reactions involving anionic organic sulfur salts. Key transformations, including SN2X (halogenophilic nucleophilic substitution) and the desymmetrization of sulfinates, will be discussed in detail.
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Next-Generation Manufacturing: Challenges, Issues, and Future Strategies Peony 4504 9 December 9:50am
Tae-Eog Lee Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology
As we venture into the era of next-generation manufacturing, the need to achieve higher quality, efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability becomes more pressing. This is especially true under unprecedented uncertainty, variability, and risk. To meet these demands, we must better deploy digital transformation, AI, robotics, etc. However, we still face significant challenges, issues, and limitations. We critically review them and propose urgent future strategies. Digital transformation based on computers, the Internet, IoT, etc., is more vital than ever, and generates massive data, leading to extensive AI deployment and extreme automation. However, digitalization tools and data are confronted with interoperability and integration with legacy systems. Standardization, middleware platforms, information sharing, cross-functional collaboration, end-to-end process integration, and the removal of organizational silos may resolve the issues, but still stall. We discuss problems and new strategies. AI has transformed manufacturing processes, engineering and design, and operation management toward a smart factory, and has automated human labor and even decision making in detection, classification, prediction, control, design, and optimization, leading to mass customization. However, its effectiveness is compromised by the inconsistency, quality, and fragmentation of training data, and the opaque nature of AI decision models. Solutions such as unified data lakes, master data management, and explainable AI have been proposed. However, there is still a long way to go. Our workforce's growing skill gaps in AI and data management are another serious issue. We discuss the feasible strategies. The manufacturing industry has further ongoing pressing concerns. Automation by AI and robotics causes tremendous job displacement. The contribution of the salary from the manufacturing industry to the national economy is significantly diminishing. Sustainability issues such as global warming due to CO2 emissions, energy consumption, material waste, and environmental pollution have become increasingly urgent. Global supply chain vulnerabilities and uncertainties demand our immediate actions for trustworthy nation-level collaboration. International politics and competition on trading, customs taxes, make the problems more complicated. It is time to rethink and redesign the sustainable manufacturing mission in the context of sustainability systems, global trading, supply chains, international politics, and the economy.
An AI-powered Self-driving Biofoundry for Synthetic Biology Peony 4401 9 December 9:50am
Huimin Zhao University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Naturally occurring or engineered biological systems such as protein machines, genetic circuits, and microbial cell factories have promised to solve many grand challenges of modern society. However, the existing processes for discovery, characterization, and engineering of biological systems are slow, expensive, and inconsistent, representing a major obstacle in synthetic biology. To address these limitations, my lab has been developing an AI-powered self-driving biofoundry since 2013. In this presentation, I will highlight a few case studies including: (a) PlasmidMaker: a versatile, robust, automated end-to-end platform that allows error-free construction of plasmids with virtually any sequences in a high throughput manner (Enghiad et al. Nature Communications 2022). (b) FAST-RiPPs and FAST-NP: a scalable platform that combines genome mining with automated refactoring or direct cloning of biosynthetic gene clusters for discovery of bioactive natural products (Ayikpoe et al. Nature Communications 2022; Yuan et al. Cell Systems 2025). (c) CLEAN: an AI tool for enzyme function prediction (Yu et al. Science 2023), (d) EZPSecificity: an AI tool for enzyme substrate specificity prediction (Cui et al. Nature 2025), and (e) BioAutomata: an AI-powered self-driving biofoundry for pathway optimization and protein engineering (Hamedi et al. Nature Communications 2019; Singh et al. Nature Communications 2025). In addition, I will discuss our current and future efforts in making our AI-powered self-driving biofoundry accessible to the broader research community and bringing the power of innovation in synthetic biology to everyone.
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Day 2: Panel Discussion
Innovation at Speed and Scale - Powering Translation through Global Collaboration Roselle-SImpor Main Ballroom 9 December 11:40am
Scientific breakthroughs only create impact when translated effectively across disciplines, geographies, and industries. This panel unites leaders from research, publishing, housing, and industry to examine how international collaboration and strong innovation ecosystems can accelerate the path from discovery to deployment. The discussion will explore frameworks that support translational R&D, the role of public–private partnerships in scaling solutions, and how openness, agility, and trust enable science to deliver global benefit faster and at greater scale.
Karl Ziemelis Springer Nature
Lukas Mayr BASF
Pooi See Lee Nanyang Technological University
Peter Nagler A * STAR
Subodh Mhaisalkar CREATE
Sze Tiong Tan Housing Development Board
Viktor Dede Evonik
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Day 2: Lunchtime Dialogue
Lunchtime Brownbag Session with Steven Chu [For Students] Orchird Junior 4311 9 December 12:25pm
Steven Chu Stanford University
How fundamental research, curiousity, and setbacks lead to real-world change in energy and policy
Day 2: Keynote Lecture (Parallel Session 2)
From Sugar Transporters to Glycoconjugated Ion Channels Roselle-Simpor 4601 9 December 1:55pm
Nieng Yan Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation
Carbohydrates are the most abundant biomolecules on Earth. Despite their physiological importance, the structural biology of glycans has significantly lagged behind that of proteins and nucleic acids. The crystal structure of the human glucose transporter GLUT3 bound to D-glucose at 1.5 Å resolution clearly demonstrates that the transporter can recognize both α- and β-anomers. This finding underscores the power of high-resolution structures in elucidating the stereochemistry of sugars. While cryo-EM has enabled the structural resolution of glycan chains that modify the extracellular surface of membrane proteins, it has largely been limited to a small number of sugar residues near the modification site and at moderate resolutions. We have been striving to solve high-resolution structures of full glycan chains with little success until recently. By employing a strategy called CryoSeek, we have successfully resolved the high-resolution structures of numerous glycans with higher order structural assemblies. In this presentation, I will focus on the serendipitous discovery of an 8,000-residue glycoprotein, which we named Mstax. This protein serves as the central shaft for the lateral hairs, known as mastigonemes, that line the cilia of Chlamydomonas . Mstax alone extends over 600 nm from the cilia surface. Notably, it contains a PKD2-like transmembrane domain, which provides an immediate explanation for the previously reported association between mastigonemes and PKD2 subunits. Whether Mstax and PKD2 proteins, along with a third component SIP, form a functional channel remains to be investigated.
Conformal Bioelectronic Interface Peony 4504 9 December 1:55pm
Xiaodong Chen Nanyang Technological University
The emerging human machine interface is creating new opportunities for developing advanced sensing technologies with unparalleled sensitivity and specificity. This talk will explore key questions in the materials chemistry underlying bio-integrated electronics, focusing on achieving a deeper and clearer understanding of their fundamental principles. Emphasis will be placed on conformal bioelectronic interfaces, which allow seamless integration of electronics into biological systems, enabling sense digitalization while maintaining functionality under deformation. The talk will also address ongoing challenges that must be overcome to fully harness the transformative potential of conformal bioelectronics in human–machine interfaces.
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Hydrogen and Carbon Dioxide as Building Blocks for a Sustainable Energy Chemistry Nexus Peony 4401 9 December 1:55pm
Walter Leitner Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion
Coming soon.
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Day 3: Plenary Lecture
Control of Excited States, Nanostructures and Functions Through Molecular Design and Supramolecular Assembly Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 10 December 8:35am
Vivian Yam The University of Hong Kong
Works in our laboratory have shown that novel classes of light-absorbing and luminescent metal-containing molecular materials could be assembled through the use of various metal-ligand chromophoric motifs. In this presentation, various design and synthetic strategies for new classes of chromophoric and luminescent metal complexes will be described. A number of these metal-ligand chromophoric complexes have been shown to display rich luminescence and photofunctional behavior. The chromophoric and luminescence behavior have been studied. Correlations of the chromophoric and luminescence behavior with the electronic and structural effects of the metal complexes have been made to elucidate their spectroscopic origins. Some of these simple discrete metal complexes are found to undergo supramolecular self-assembly or co-assembly with block copolymers to give a variety of nanostructures and morphologies with different colors and emission properties. Subtle changes in the microenvironment, conformations and nanostructured morphologies have led to drastic changes in both their electronic absorption and emission properties. Explorations into the underlying factors that determine their spectroscopic properties and morphologies as well as their assembly processes have provided new insights into the understanding of their photophysics, structure-property-function relationships, and the interplay of the various intermolecular forces and interactions for the directed assembly of metal-containing supramolecular assemblies and soft materials. Manipulation of the electronic effects, molecular conformation, orientation and assembly has led to the control of the excited states in novel molecular materials and supramolecular assemblies. The exploration into the potential applications and functions of these light-emitting discrete metal complexes, supramolecular assemblies and polymers will also be described.
Day 3: Keynote Lecture (Parallel Session 1)
Photoinduced SET and HAT from/to Polysulfide Anions Roselle-Simpor 4601 10 December 9:40am
Shunsuke Chiba Nanyang Technological University
Sulfur forms catenated homoatomic polysulfide dianions Sn2– (commonly, n = 2-8) and a persistent radical anion S3•– (which has been recognized as a chromophore in ultramarine blues).1 The redox potentials of polysulfide anions have been elucidated mainly for the development of alkali metals-sulfur batteries. We recently revealed that these polysulfide anions function to mediate single electron transfer (SET) and hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) under irradiation with visible light.2-4 This lecture will present recent directions in our group toward development of molecular transformations under polysulfide anion photocatalysis.
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Feeding the Future: Navigating the Complexities and Innovations in Sustainable Food Systems with research Peony 4504 10 December 9:40am
Milena Corredig Aarhus University
The challenge of food supply has significant impacts on both geopolitical and social issues. Food systems must be transformed to become healthier, more accessible, and simultaneously more sustainable and resilient. Food science research is more crucial than ever, as it needs to contribute to innovative solutions aimed at creating zero-emission, circular value chains. Achieving this requires excellent multidisciplinary research. A multidimensional approach is necessary, considering all barriers to implementation, not just the largest or most obvious ones. Food systems are particularly complex, and systemic innovation demands an in depth understanding of the balance between the gains and losses of current supply chains. Engaging with stakeholders is crucial, as they are not only instrumental in driving solutions but are also often part of the current problem. End-users may be hesitant to embrace innovations; therefore, their education and trust are essential. Transformative food systems frequently require the implementation of deep tech solutions, which may not yet be available or are not market-ready. Such solutions must demonstrate their safety for health and are often characterized by high development costs for research and infrastructure, along with supply chain complexities. Additionally, significant skill gaps in the workforce must be addressed. This presentation will explore two distinct examples where technologies may be available, but market readiness is hindered by substantial knowledge gaps within value chains. These represent "wicked problems" where the agents of change are also part of the problem: sustainable food packaging and legume proteins as ingredients in food. We will discuss how multidisciplinary food science is crucial in supporting a successful innovative ecosystem.
Nanoconfinement Effects on Electrochemical Charge Storage Peony 4401 10 December 9:40am
Patrice Simon Université de Toulouse
A deep understanding of electrolyte ion dynamics — both at the electrolyte/electrode interface and within the bulk of porous electrode materials — is essential for improving charge storage in electrochemical energy ‐ storage systems such as batteries and supercapacitors. However, deciphering the solvent-ions interaction and ions-electrode interaction upon the processes of adsorption, intercalation, extraction and transportation of ions in host materials remains challenging as all these processes occurs at the nanoscale or in confined environments. In this presentation, we will show how advanced electrochemical techniques can be employed to characterize ionic and electronic transport at the nanometer scale in model materials, including 3D porous carbons, 2D reduced graphene oxide, and metal carbides (MXenes). We will demonstrate that the confinement of electrolytes within sub-nanometer pores profoundly alters their solvation state, leading to unique and advantageous charge ‐ storage properties. Our findings highlight the key roles of ion–electrode interaction strength and cation desolvation in governing charging mechanisms. By tailoring surface chemistry to promote specific ion–host interactions and facilitate desolvation, new pathways emerge to enhance capacitive energy storage performance. These insights are crucial for guiding the design of efficient, high ‐ power, and fast ‐ response energy ‐ storage devices that meet the demands of next ‐ generation applications.
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Day 3: Panel Discussion
The Future of Scientific Talent - Nurturing the Next Generation for Impact Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 10 December 11:30am
Behind every transformative discovery lies a generation of scientists shaped by mentorship, collaboration, and purpose. This panel convenes global leaders from academia and research management to discuss how to nurture scientific talent capable of driving innovation in a rapidly changing world. The discussion explores how mentorship, institutional culture, and international collaboration can foster curiosity, resilience, and leadership in young scientists building a talent ecosystem where excellence and impact thrive together.
Andy Hor A * STAR
Bin Liu National University of Singapore
Ernst Johan Kuipers Nanyang Technological University
Juliana Lim SGInnovate
Yin Nah Teo Illumina
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Day 3: Lunchtime Dialogue
Innovating Beyond the Lab Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 10 December 12:15pm
Singapore’s innovation ecosystem is increasingly driven by deep-tech ventures, companies built on cutting-edge science and engineering that push the boundaries of what is possible. This session brings together founders from Equatic, MiRXES, NEU Battery, and Sungreen H₂, who share their journeys of translating advanced research into impactful enterprises. The dialogue showcases how deep-tech start-ups navigate the unique challenges of scaling scientific innovation from building teams and securing investment to developing market- ready products. Each story reflects the resilience and creativity required to bridge the gap between research and industry, while highlighting how Singapore’s ecosystem supports the growth of science-driven ventures.
Bryan Ho NEU Battery Materials
Gaurav Sant Equatic Inc.
He Cheng MiRXES Pte. Ltd.
Tulika Raj SungreenH2 Pte. Ltd.
Day 3: Keynote Lecture (Parallel Session 2)
Programable Singlet Oxygen Battery Roselle-Simpor 4601 10 December 1:45pm
Bin Liu National University of Singapore
The efficacy of photodynamic therapy is hindered by the hypoxic environment in tumors and limited light penetration depth. The singlet oxygen battery (SOB) has emerged as a promising solution, enabling oxygen- and light-independent 1O2 release. However, conventional SOB systems typically exhibit an “always-ON” 1O2 release, leading to potential 1O2 leakage before and after treatment. This not only compromises therapeutic outcomes but also raises substantial biosafety concerns. In this talk, we introduce a programmable singlet oxygen battery, engineered to address all the issues discussed above. Our designed “OFF–ON–OFF” 1O2 therapy showed high spatiotemporal selectivity and was independent of the oxygen supply and light illumination.
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Rethinking Meat: Maximising the Protein Potential Through Whole-animal Utilisation Peony 4504 10 December 1:45pm
Aarti Tobin Just Meat Protein
As global demand for high-quality protein continues to rise amid climate change, resource constraints, and shifting dietary patterns, the meat industry stands at a pivotal moment. The convergence of next-generation manufacturing technologies, circular economy principles, and evolving consumer values is redefining how meat is produced, processed, and perceived. Central to this transformation is a renewed focus on whole-animal utilisation referred to as the “5th quarter” in Australia, to maximise the nutritional and economic potential of every component of the animal to create a more sustainable and resilient protein future. Traditionally undervalued components such as offal, bones, hides, mechanically deboned meat (MDM) and fats are now being revalorised through advances in processing technologies, including enzymatic hydrolysis, high-pressure processing (HPP), freeze-drying etc. These technologies enable the extraction of high-value proteins, bioactives, and functional ingredients that support diversified product portfolios, from nutrient-dense broths and shelf-stable snacks to nutraceuticals and supplements, and hybrid meat products. At the same time, today’s consumers are increasingly aligning their food choices with their values. Transparency, sustainability, and clean-label functionality are no longer niche preferences, they are market expectations. The very definition of “meat” is broadening to encompass a spectrum of protein-rich foods that combine animal and alternative sources to avail the benefits of both, for example, hybrid products for the flexitarian consumers. With the increase in the use of GLP-1 medication, the demand for high quality protein that is easily digestible and contains all the essential amino acids is increasing. Meat, being a complete protein, has an essential role to play in this value-driven shift, as it opens new avenues for innovation in product design, supply chain optimisation, and cross-sector collaboration. This keynote will explore how whole-animal utilisation can serve as an innovation catalyst that bridges sustainability goals with market opportunity as we navigate a protein hungry future. Drawing on research, market data, and case studies, the session will highlight how integrating full-resource use into scalable production systems can complement alternative proteins, strengthen food security, and build an economically viable protein economy.
Materials for Healthcare Peony 4401 10 December 1:45pm
Xian Jun Loh A * STAR IMRE
Advances in materials science are transforming the landscape of modern healthcare, enabling breakthroughs in diagnostics, therapeutics, and patient care. This talk will explore the pivotal role of innovative materials in addressing critical healthcare challenges, from regenerative medicine and drug delivery systems to wearable technologies and implantable devices. By integrating biomaterials with cutting-edge technologies such as nanotechnology, 3D printing, and biocompatible polymers, we can design solutions that are not only effective but also tailored to individual needs. This session will also highlight current research trends and the translational potential of novel materials to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and clinical application. Join me as I delve into how materials science is shaping a healthier future for all. In particular, I will describe my lab to (almost) clinical path of thermogelling polymers. Thermogelling polymers have been named as one of the IUPAC Top 10 Emerging Technologies in Chemistry in 2025 and I will share the exciting research results from my lab on this material.
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Day 3: Closing Plenary Lecture
Convergence and the Future of Health-Care Roselle-Simpor Main Ballroom 10 December 4:55pm
Ernst Johan Kuipers Nanyang Technological University
Coming soon.
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PARTNERS AND SPONSORS
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PARTNERS AND SPONSORS
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SSC COMMITTEES
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SSC COMMITTEES
Steering Committee
Andy Hor
Bin Liu
Ernst Kuipers
Teck Seng Low National Research Foundation (NRF)
Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A * STAR)
National University of Singapore (NUS)
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU)
Scientific Committee Andy Hor
A * STAR
Chee Keong Goh
Republic Polytechnic
Chee Teck Phua
Nanyang Polytechnic
Cher Heng Tan
NHG Health
Chorng Haur Sow
NUS and Singapore National Academy of Science
Corrina Choong
Singapore University of Technology and Design
Eriko Takano
A * STAR
Huiying Yang
National University of Singapore
Jonathan Loh
A * STAR
Julian Thumboo
SingHealth
Singapore Society for Microbiology and Biotechnology
Justin Chu
Kalpana Bhaskaran
Temasek Polytechnic
King Jet Tseng
Singapore Institute of Technology
Madhavi Srinivasan
Nanyang Technological University
Michinao Hashimoto
Singapore University of Technology and Design
Mimi Hill
A * STAR
Nan Liu
Duke-NUS
Qi-Jing Li
A * STAR
Roger Foo
National University Health System
Steve Yim
Nanyang Technological University
Wei Yang Cheong
Singapore Management University
Weisi Lin
Nanyang Technological University
Xiaogang Liu
National University of Singapore
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Scientific Committee Zibiao Li
A * STAR
Andrew Ng (Secretariat)
A * STAR
Derrick Fam (Secretariat)
A * STAR
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SINGAPORE SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE 2025
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