Jobs in Singapore: “How my passion for innovation propelled my career in engineering and sustainability”

1. What is your role exactly, and what’s most meaningful to you?

I’m with A*STAR Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (A*STAR ISCE2). As the Division Director of Process Engineering and Safety, my work focuses on sustainability and taking promising lab-developed technologies into the field. This includes identifying viable technologies with the potential to scale, and building the infrastructure to bring them to life, with safety being essential in the entire process.

I am also the programme director of the Low‑Carbon Technology Translational Testbed (LCT³), Singapore’s first-of-its-kind facility dedicated to helping companies test, refine, and scale up low-carbon solutions – such as carbon capture and hydrogen technologies – under real-world conditions before commercial deployment.

In the private sector, the focus is largely on profits. But at A*STAR ISCE2, there are amazing opportunities to develop technologies that serve a greater purpose for mankind. I get to work with top scientists and startups to create state-of-the-art technologies that contribute to sustainability. To me, it’s truly meaningful to be part of global efforts to develop technologies to decarbonise Singapore and the world at large.

2. How did you end up in this role at A*STAR?

I was fortunate to receive a Public Service Commission scholarship, which gave me the opportunity to pursue my studies in Germany. During that time, I also learnt German, which I became fluent in, and this gave me valuable exposure to different cultures and ways of thinking.
I had already worked in the chemical engineering industry for about 20 years prior to joining A*STAR ISCE². My work took me to different countries and I learnt a lot from experienced engineers from Europe, America and Asia. As I progressed in my career, I wanted to pay it forward by passing on what I’ve learnt over the years to the next generation of engineers.

As chance would have it, someone I knew who was working at A*STAR ISCE² told me about a new division, Process Engineering and Safety, that was being set up then. I was invited to explore the opportunity. After some thought, I realised I could do something meaningful in this role — to help grow the next generation of engineers while making a difference to Singapore’s goal of achieving net zero by 2050. So, here I am.

3. Why does the LCT³ matter for Singapore’s future?

The LCT³ will give Singapore the capability to test, refine, and scale up sustainable low-carbon technologies locally, supporting our transition to a greener economy and creating new opportunities for industry and talent.

We’re currently designing the facility on Jurong Island. It will be the first-of-its-kind facility here and will help accelerate the move from lab to real-world deployment for technologies like carbon capture and hydrogen. A lot of good work can be done in the lab, but we need a site like this for testing and piloting new technologies in real-world conditions before they are deployed commercially.

We are already working with partners such as Japanese engineering company IHI. They’re looking to produce sustainable aviation fuel by combining carbon dioxide and hydrogen. IHI has been working on it for years, and they’ve reached the stage where the product is ready for testing. Besides sustainable aviation fuel, we’re also looking at other technologies including extracting hydrogen, which is a clean energy solution, from ammonia and methane.

In addition, we work with promising startups that are passionate about driving sustainability. For example, we are helping a Singaporean startup that’s looking to convert biogas into methanol analyse their business model – this includes assessing customer needs, and getting them ready to pitch to investors to raise funds.

4. What do Singaporeans need to know about LCT³ and its impact?

First, I’d say Singaporeans should be aware that there is a dedicated team of people who are working hard to develop viable low-carbon solutions to decarbonise the nation.

Second, LCT³ is a new and exciting place for talent who are keen to grow a career in engineering and sustainable technologies. So, come join us if you’re passionate about engineering and developing innovative technologies that move the needle on sustainability.

Last but not least, the testbed will be housed on Jurong Island – Singapore’s hub for the energy and chemicals sector – and we’re looking forward to working closely with companies to test new solutions and bring them closer to commercialisation.

5. Why is sustainability, particularly in chemical engineering, such a promising field for Singapore’s future?

Engineering is a science that transforms materials at the molecular level into products that people and industries need. For companies to be sustainable, they must be able to implement their ideas in such a way that makes sense for the business and the environment. Engineers are key to helping organisations bring these ideas to life and implementing them for optimal impact.

6. What do you enjoy most about working at A*STAR, and why would you recommend it for someone considering a research career?

I find meaning in being able to nurture the next generation of engineers. For someone considering a career in research, I’d say that it’s actually essential to start off in the lab – this gives you a true appreciation of a product that’s being developed. Many fresh graduates also have the notion that they’d be stuck in the lab during their entire career if they pursued research. That’s not necessarily the case. Engineers who start off in the lab doing research do have opportunities to move into management positions. As you advance in your career to middle or senior management, you’d have an edge because you have a solid understanding of the product that you’re selling.
 

7. Why should young Singaporeans care about research and innovation as part of their future — and how can they play a role in it?

Research is essential so that mankind can continue to innovate and advance. Imagine if there was no research: we’d still be walking from point to point instead of commuting in vehicles. Or we’d be living in caves instead of in houses. Therefore, we need to nurture a new generation of engineers who are passionate about research, technology and innovation. This way, society will progress and people can enjoy a better quality of life.