National Neuroscience Institute - Singapore
Professional Profiles
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Early Academic Pursuits
Graduating as a medical doctor in 1991 marked the beginning of a journey steeped in rigorous academic and clinical training. Following this achievement, I undertook five years of postgraduate clinical training in internal medicine. This phase was crucial for honing my clinical skills and gaining a profound understanding of patient care. The experience provided a solid foundation for my subsequent shift towards research. Driven by a desire to delve deeper into the scientific underpinnings of medical conditions, I pursued a PhD at the prestigious Chinese Academy of Science. This period was instrumental in developing my expertise in biochemistry and biophysics, laying the groundwork for my future contributions to translational neuroscience.
Professional Endeavors
In 2003, I embarked on post-doctoral training at the National University of Singapore (NUS), focusing on research in Parkinson's Disease (PD). This transition marked the beginning of my professional endeavors in neuroscience. The comprehensive training at NUS equipped me with advanced research skills and an in-depth understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. My journey then led me to the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI), where I joined the National PD Translational Bench to Bedside team. At NNI, I engaged in pioneering research aimed at bridging the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications. My role as a Clinician Scientist at NNI and Assistant Professor at the Duke-NUS Medical School underscores my commitment to both clinical practice and academic research.
Contributions and Research Focus On Neuroscience
My research primarily focuses on neurodegenerative disorders, with a particular emphasis on Parkinson's Disease (PD). My lab is dedicated to identifying and validating new therapeutic targets and biomarkers for PD and other neurodegenerative diseases. This work is critical for uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying these conditions and for developing innovative therapeutic strategies. Through interdisciplinary approaches that integrate medicine, biochemistry, and biophysics, my research aims to improve the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Notably, I have successfully administered and completed five major research grants on PD in Singapore, highlighting my capability in leading complex research projects and contributing valuable knowledge to the field.
Accolades and Recognition In Neuroscience
Throughout my career, I have received substantial support and recognition for my research contributions. My work has been funded by prestigious grants from the National Medical Research Council (NMRC), the Singapore Health Foundation (SHF), and collaborative pilot grants from Duke-Duke-NUS. These grants not only underscore the significance of my research but also reflect the confidence the scientific community has in my ability to advance the field of neurodegenerative disease research. The successful administration of these grants and the impactful outcomes of my projects have earned me a respected position within the research community.
Impact and Influence
My research has made significant strides in enhancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. By focusing on the molecular pathogenesis of conditions like Parkinson's Disease, my work aims to identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers that can revolutionize the way these diseases are diagnosed and treated. The interdisciplinary nature of my research, combining elements of biochemistry, biophysics, and translational neuroscience, ensures a comprehensive approach to tackling these complex diseases. The collaborative efforts and the impactful achievements of my research projects have contributed to the advancement of medical science and have the potential to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from neurodegenerative disorders.
Legacy and Future Contributions For Neuroscience
Looking ahead, my commitment to advancing the field of neurodegenerative disease research remains steadfast. I aim to continue exploring new frontiers in translational neuroscience, driven by the goal of uncovering innovative therapeutic strategies and improving patient outcomes. The foundation I have built through my academic and professional endeavors positions me to make lasting contributions to the field. My ongoing research, supported by prestigious grants and collaborations, will undoubtedly yield further insights into the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and pave the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Through these efforts, I aspire to leave a lasting legacy that enhances the scientific understanding and clinical management of neurodegenerative disorders, ultimately improving the lives of patients worldwide.
Notable Publications
Tyrosine Hydroxylase Inhibitors and Dopamine Receptor Agonists Combination Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease 2024
Passive immunotherapy for Alzheimer’s disease: challenges & future directions 2024
Role of dopamine in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease 2023