Celebrating excellence: Prof Hew Choy Sin receives distinguished orchid research honour
May 05, 2026
The orchid Phalaenopsis Hew Choy Sin was named after and presented to Prof Hew by his students on his 70th birthday in 2007. Photo: Ms Lee Foong Ying
Professor Hew Choy Sin, who retired from the NUS Department of Biological Sciences in 2004, was conferred the prestigious AOS Orchid Research Award (AOSORA) by the American Orchid Society (AOS) in February 2026. The award is a major international recognition of scientific excellence in orchid research.
Prof Hew has been actively involved in tropical orchid research for over 30 years. His lifelong research has resulted in significant advances in the understanding of the physiology and cultivation of tropical orchids, particularly in optimising their growth and development. His work expanded the understanding of the various patterns of carbon dioxide fixation in tropical orchids, partitioning of assimilates, advances in orchid tissue culture, flower senescence, and postharvest handling of orchid cut-flowers.
His research directly contributed to innovations in commercial orchid cultivation and postharvest management. His work on plant growth regulators and postharvest physiology enabled longer-lasting cut flowers, benefitting exporters and commercial growers in Singapore and the region.
His consulting expertise extended beyond academia, collaborating with government agencies, commercial enterprises, and international research institutions to drive orchid biotechnology, conservation, and sustainable cultivation practices.
Prof Hew’s lifelong research on orchids has contributed prominently to the understanding of tropical orchid cultivation.
Prof Hew has published more than 140 works in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. Of his three books, The Physiology of Tropical Orchids in Relation to the Industry has been particularly well-received.
Established in 2023, the AOSORA is regarded as AOS’, and possibility the world’s, first and most prestigious award dedicated specifically to orchid scientists and researchers. The AOSORA is administered and conferred by the AOS Research Committee, a panel made up of respected orchid scientists.
The selection process is highly competitive. To receive the award, a scientist must be nominated by a world-renowned peer, supported by multiple letters of endorsement from established international expert, selected by the vote of the AOS Research Committee and approved by AOS Trustees.
Prof Hew is the fourth recipient of the AOSORA.
Read more about Prof Hew’s research achievements here.
