Congratulations, Class of 2025 and a special shout-out to our valedictorians!
We are very proud of you!
Ceremonies
Departments
Speakers
Valedictorians
C21
Thursday
17 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Mathematics + Risk Management Institute
Speaker
Ms Zhou Linyi
Executive Director
Head of AEJ Treasury Funding
Nomura Singapore
Valedictorian
Dr Shi Jia Yu
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics
Ms O’Rianna Yew Jingqing
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Economics
C22
Thursday
17 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Physics
Chemistry
Speaker
Dr Chong Yoke Sin
Chairman
Portfolio Management Committee
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Mr Yap Kang Zheng
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry
C23
Thursday
17 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Speaker
Ms Ng Hong Yen
Chief Pharmacist and
Specialist Pharmacist (Oncology)
Division of Pharmacy
Singapore General Hospital
Valedictorian
Mr Ryan Lee Ray Yen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science
C18
Wednesday
16 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Statistics and Data Science
Speaker
Dr Loke Chok Kang
Chief Data and AI Officer
Civil Service College
Singapore
Valedictorian
Mr Jonah Goh Yu An
Master of Science in Data Science for Sustainability
Mr Mao Kaiwen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Analytics
C19
Wednesday
16 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Mechanobiology Institute
Food Science and Technology
Speaker
Mr Chiang Poh Leong
Director of Product Development
Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc
Valedictorian
Dr Aakash Lamba
Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences
Ms Kwok Jing Lin
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Food Science and Technology
C20
Wednesday
16 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Environmental Studies
Speaker
Professor Ng Huck-Hui
Assistant Chief Executive
Research and Talent Development
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Ms Judith Ko Wen Hui
Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Hons)
Mr Jeriel Lee Cheng Hock
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Life Sciences
C21
Thursday
17 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Mathematics + Risk Management Institute
Speaker
Ms Zhou Linyi
Executive Director
Head of AEJ Treasury Funding
Nomura Singapore
Valedictorian
Dr Shi Jia Yu
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics
Ms O’Rianna Yew Jingqing
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Economics
C22
Thursday
17 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Physics
Chemistry
Speaker
Dr Chong Yoke Sin
Chairman
Portfolio Management Committee
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Mr Yap Kang Zheng
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry
C23
Thursday
17 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Speaker
Ms Ng Hong Yen
Chief Pharmacist and
Specialist Pharmacist (Oncology)
Division of Pharmacy
Singapore General Hospital
Valedictorian
Mr Ryan Lee Ray Yen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science
C18
Wednesday
16 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Statistics and Data Science
Speaker
Dr Loke Chok Kang
Chief Data and AI Officer
Civil Service College
Singapore
Valedictorian
Mr Jonah Goh Yu An
Master of Science in Data Science for Sustainability
Mr Mao Kaiwen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Analytics
C19
Wednesday
16 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Mechanobiology Institute
Food Science and Technology
Speaker
Mr Chiang Poh Leong
Director of Product Development
Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc
Valedictorian
Dr Aakash Lamba
Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences
Ms Kwok Jing Lin
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Food Science and Technology
C20
Wednesday
16 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Environmental Studies
Speaker
Professor Ng Huck-Hui
Assistant Chief Executive
Research and Talent Development
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Ms Judith Ko Wen Hui
Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Hons)
Mr Jeriel Lee Cheng Hock
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Life Sciences
C21
Thursday
17 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Mathematics + Risk Management Institute
Speaker
Ms Zhou Linyi
Executive Director
Head of AEJ Treasury Funding
Nomura Singapore
Valedictorian
Dr Shi Jia Yu
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics
Ms O’Rianna Yew Jingqing
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Economics
C22
Thursday
17 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Physics
Chemistry
Speaker
Dr Chong Yoke Sin
Chairman
Portfolio Management Committee
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Mr Yap Kang Zheng
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry
C23
Thursday
17 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Speaker
Ms Ng Hong Yen
Chief Pharmacist and
Specialist Pharmacist (Oncology)
Division of Pharmacy
Singapore General Hospital
Valedictorian
Mr Ryan Lee Ray Yen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science
C20
Wednesday
16 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Environmental Studies
Speaker
Professor Ng Huck-Hui
Assistant Chief Executive
Research and Talent Development
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Ms Judith Ko Wen Hui
Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Hons)
Mr Jeriel Lee Cheng Hock
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Life Sciences
C21
Thursday
17 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Mathematics + Risk Management Institute
Speaker
Ms Zhou Linyi
Executive Director
Head of AEJ Treasury Funding
Nomura Singapore
Valedictorian
Dr Shi Jia Yu
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics
Ms O’Rianna Yew Jingqing
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Economics
C22
Thursday
17 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Physics
Chemistry
Speaker
Dr Chong Yoke Sin
Chairman
Portfolio Management Committee
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Mr Yap Kang Zheng
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry
C23
Thursday
17 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Speaker
Ms Ng Hong Yen
Chief Pharmacist and
Specialist Pharmacist (Oncology)
Division of Pharmacy
Singapore General Hospital
Valedictorian
Mr Ryan Lee Ray Yen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science
C18
Wednesday
16 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Statistics and Data Science
Speaker
Dr Loke Chok Kang
Chief Data and AI Officer
Civil Service College
Singapore
Valedictorian
Mr Jonah Goh Yu An
Master of Science in Data Science for Sustainability
Mr Mao Kaiwen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Analytics
C19
Wednesday
16 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Mechanobiology Institute
Food Science and Technology
Speaker
Mr Chiang Poh Leong
Director of Product Development
Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc
Valedictorian
Dr Aakash Lamba
Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences
Ms Kwok Jing Lin
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Food Science and Technology
C20
Wednesday
16 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Environmental Studies
Speaker
Professor Ng Huck-Hui
Assistant Chief Executive
Research and Talent Development
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Ms Judith Ko Wen Hui
Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Hons)
Mr Jeriel Lee Cheng Hock
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Life Sciences
C21
Thursday
17 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Mathematics + Risk Management Institute
Speaker
Ms Zhou Linyi
Executive Director
Head of AEJ Treasury Funding
Nomura Singapore
Valedictorian
Dr Shi Jia Yu
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics
Ms O’Rianna Yew Jingqing
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Economics
C22
Thursday
17 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Physics
Chemistry
Speaker
Dr Chong Yoke Sin
Chairman
Portfolio Management Committee
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Mr Yap Kang Zheng
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry
C23
Thursday
17 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Speaker
Ms Ng Hong Yen
Chief Pharmacist and
Specialist Pharmacist (Oncology)
Division of Pharmacy
Singapore General Hospital
Valedictorian
Mr Ryan Lee Ray Yen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science
C18
Wednesday
16 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Statistics and Data Science
Speaker
Dr Loke Chok Kang
Chief Data and AI Officer
Civil Service College
Singapore
Valedictorian
Mr Jonah Goh Yu An
Master of Science in Data Science for Sustainability
Mr Mao Kaiwen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Analytics
C19
Wednesday
16 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Mechanobiology Institute
Food Science and Technology
Speaker
Mr Chiang Poh Leong
Director of Product Development
Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc
Valedictorian
Dr Aakash Lamba
Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences
Ms Kwok Jing Lin
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Food Science and Technology
C20
Wednesday
16 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Biological Sciences + Environmental Studies
Speaker
Professor Ng Huck-Hui
Assistant Chief Executive
Research and Talent Development
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Ms Judith Ko Wen Hui
Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Hons)
Mr Jeriel Lee Cheng Hock
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Life Sciences
C21
Thursday
17 July 2025
10.00 AM
Department
Mathematics + Risk Management Institute
Speaker
Ms Zhou Linyi
Executive Director
Head of AEJ Treasury Funding
Nomura Singapore
Valedictorian
Dr Shi Jia Yu
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics
Ms O’Rianna Yew Jingqing
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Data Science and Economics
C22
Thursday
17 July 2025
2.30 PM
Department
Physics
Chemistry
Speaker
Dr Chong Yoke Sin
Chairman
Portfolio Management Committee
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Valedictorian
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Mr Yap Kang Zheng
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry
C23
Thursday
17 July 2025
7.00 PM
Department
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Speaker
Ms Ng Hong Yen
Chief Pharmacist and
Specialist Pharmacist (Oncology)
Division of Pharmacy
Singapore General Hospital
Valedictorian
Mr Ryan Lee Ray Yen
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science
Endeavours are not only about the brightest ideas, but the courage to explore, the discipline to innovate and the will to see it to completion.
Mr Ryan Lee graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Pharmaceutical Science with a Second Major in Life Sciences. He was awarded the NUS Global Merit Scholarship and was a Dean’s List recipient.
He is driven by a keen interest in, and passion for pharmaceutical research and undertook various research projects at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, NUS and the Cancer Science Institute Singapore. His dedication culminated in his Final Year Project being awarded the Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher Prize.
Beyond academics, he serves as a Volunteer Adult Leader with Henry Park Primary School and the Singapore Scout Association, where he mentors youths to develop competencies for the 21st century.
Mr Lee has been awarded the President’s Graduate Fellowship and will be pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy at NUS.
C23
‘Follow your heart’. This simple yet powerful guidance has helped me navigate uncertainty and make life decisions that reflect my values and aspirations.
Mr Jonah Goh graduates with a Master of Science (MSc) in Data Science for Sustainability.
Mr Goh completed two internships during his candidature. At Heymax.ai, he contributed to data-driven solutions to optimise user engagement and product performance. At NUS’ Centre for Nature-Based Climate Solutions, he applied machine learning and data analytics to analyse bioacoustics data for biodiversity monitoring in Singapore’s forests.
A key insight he gained from his MSc programme is that meaningful learning extends far beyond the classroom. While lectures are valuable for introducing new concepts, a weekly three-hour class can only cover so much; true learning and growth come from applying what is learned, whether through internships, hands-on projects or real-world experiences.
Mr Goh is now a Quantum Safe Research Engineer at VIAVI Solutions, where he focuses on testing and developing cutting-edge quantum-safe network technologies to help prepare for the post-quantum cryptographic era.
C18
Give your best to the present. Every attempt teaches, every interest pursued matters – even if it’s not your future, you won’t regret the growth it granted.
Mr Mao Kaiwen graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Data Science and Analytics, with Specialisations in Statistical Methodology and Operations Research and Minors in Computer Science, Economics and Quantitative Finance. He was placed on the Dean’s List for five semesters and received the MAS Academic Excellence Prize and the Singapore Prison Service Data Science and Analytics Prize in his second year.
In his Honours Project, he proposed and implemented novel methodologies to simulate and investigate the outbreaks of infectious diseases, with applications on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond academics, Mr Mao served as a teaching assistant for the courses CS1010S/A and IND5003, imparting programming and data science skills to fellow NUS students. In his final year, he was also actively engaged in creating data science workshops as a member of the NUS Statistics and Data Science Society.
He will be pursuing a master’s degree at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
C18
I graduate with immense gratitude for the knowledge, purpose and community I found at NUS. These continue to guide and enrich my journey ahead.
Dr Aakash Lamba graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biological Sciences and is the recipient of the Best Graduate Researcher Award (2023).
He holds a Master of Science in Conservation Science from Imperial College London, United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University, United States.
His doctoral work focused on leveraging nature-based solutions for catalysing climate action, biodiversity preservation and human wellbeing. Dr Lamba integrates ecology, emerging technologies and environmental economics to drive impact. His work has been published in leading journals like Nature Ecology & Evolution.
He is now a Research Fellow at NUS, where he continues his work in advancing sustainability policy and research.
C19
Lead with integrity, treat those around you with empathy and recognise that every individual is our superior in some way – from each, we learn and grow.
Ms Kwok Jing Lin graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Food Science and Technology. She is a recipient of the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship as well as the NUS Student Life Award – Leadership (Distinction), which recognises her exemplary leadership and extracurricular contributions.
Ms Kwok is committed to academic excellence. She self-sourced and completed a year-long Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme in Science (UROPS) research project in food microbiology and safety. She also undertook an internship at the Singapore Food Agency and opted for a final year internship at Food Industry Asia, where she analysed global food policy and regulatory developments.
Beyond academics, Ms Kwok served as Project Director of the NUS FoodTech Challenge (2022), leading her committee in spearheading the competition’s first ever international expansion. She was also invited as a keynote speaker at the Faculty of Science 95th Anniversary Symposium. In service to the wider community, she also served as a Silver Generation Ambassador under the Agency for Integrated Care.
Ms Kwok will be pursuing a Master of Public Health at Imperial College London, United Kingdom, and will thereafter join the Singapore Food Agency.
C19
Lasting transformation rarely arrives with grand spectacle – it often emerges through unwavering consistency, adaptive strategies and the courage to act amidst uncertainties and complexities.
Ms Judith Ko graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Environmental Studies with a Minor in Urban Studies. She is a Public Service Commission Scholar and member of NUS College, and has been placed on the Faculty Dean’s List, the NUSC Honour Roll, Senior Honour Roll and President’s Honour Roll.
Ms Ko served as President of 1.5degreeNUS and Project Director of the Urban Redevelopment Authority Outreach Programme. She presented her award-winning policy paper on equitable decarbonisation at the Blue Zone of the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, after clinching first place at the international Climate Science Olympiad.
She will pursue her Master in Public Policy and Global Affairs at the University of British Columbia, Canada. She aspires to develop participatory policy frameworks that bridge citizens, institutions and the environment.
C20
Embrace uncertainty – take risks, explore new paths and you may find your calling. Regret only comes from chances not taken.
Mr Jeriel Lee graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Life Sciences, with a Specialisation in Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity and a Minor in Forensic Science. He was on the Dean’s List in his third year and is a recipient of the Ngee Ann Kongsi Residential Scholarship Award as well as the Holttum Prize for academic excellence and community contributions.
During his candidacy, he participated in five research assignments, including the prestigious Amgen Scholars Programme. His research on the origins of insect wings using a butterfly model, as well as molecular mechanisms for their development, has been presented locally and internationally.
Mr Lee was also heavily involved in several leadership roles. He was a House Head at Ridge View Residential College and a member of the Special Programme in Science (SPS) Executive Committee. As an SPS mentor, he guided mentees on their research journey through their SPS capstone research projects.
Mr Lee will continue his research at NUS’ Department of Biological Sciences, aiming to publish his work before pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy.
C20
Be true to what you think is right, no matter what others say. People only see where you’ve been and where you are now, but the future you’re shaping is what really counts.
Dr Shi Jia Yu graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mathematics. She was awarded the NUS Research Scholarship to pursue her doctoral studies.
Dr Shi’s research focuses on stochastic control and optimisation, especially their applications in solving portfolio allocation and systematic market-making problems in finance. Her paper was selected for presentation at the 5th ACM International Conference on AI in Finance (2024).
She also actively applies her academic knowledge to industrial practices. She achieved first place in the Citadel APAC Regional Datathon (2021) and joined the JPMorgan Quantitative Research Mentorship Programme (2022). She also participated in the Virtu Financial Winternship Programme and interned as a quantitative researcher at Citadel Securities (2023).
Dr Shi is currently an Equity Derivatives Quantitative Strategist at investment banking company Morgan Stanley.
C21
There are no troughs in life – only a journey of descending one mountain to ascend another towards the next peak.
Ms O’rianna Yew graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) from the inaugural Data Science and Economics cohort. She was placed on the Dean’s List for two semesters.
She explored the fusion of labour economics theory with frontier causal inference tools in her final year capstone project, most notably instrumental forests, to reveal which groups of mothers face the steepest “third-child penalty.” She also implemented reinforcement-learning techniques to engineer portfolio optimisation strategies in financial projects.
As an Economics Research Assistant, Ms Yew reconstructed multicountry datasets and extracted policy-relevant signals from hundreds of economic reports, which contributes to ongoing research. In her final semester, she represented NUS in the University of Chicago Econometrics Game, where she and her team advanced to the finals judged by Nobel Laureates.
She also worked on real-world projects during her internships: scenario planning for Housing & Development Board financing at the Ministry of National Development; helping with article write-ups at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy; and an interactive trade security dashboard at the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Ms Yew will be pursuing a Master in Finance and Private Equity at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
C21
Doing a PhD is nothing like cramming for a test. There’s no answer key. It’s more like solving a puzzle that keeps changing shape.
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physics.
During his PhD candidature, Dr Yeo developed statistical models for characterising carbon allotropes to enhance battery performance. His research was published in Advanced Materials (2024). His earlier research contributions include discovering a new dengue genotype, published in Nature Scientific Reports.
He revolutionised electron microscopy by creating an Expectation-Maximisation and Compression (EMC)-based algorithm that improved resolution and scaling capability a thousandfold. Through the Special Programme in Science, he also acquired expertise in interdisciplinary scientific research; this led to projects with the National Environment Agency and NUS’ Centre for Advanced 2D Materials that resulted in publications at prestigious journals and conferences.
Dr Yeo will continue as a Research Fellow at NUS’ Department of Statistics and Data Science, applying machine learning methods to detect nanoparticle binding events.
C22
May we all remember to be kind: to ourselves, to those we know and to those we might never meet. It is cliché but so often do we fall short. Never forget that the consequences of our everyday generosity and tiny acts of compassion are far greater than what we could possibly imagine.
Mr Yap Kang Zheng graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Chemistry with a Specialisation in Chemical Research. He attained the Dean’s List and received the Singapore National Institute of Chemistry Medal in Academic Year 2024/2025.
His interest lies in organic chemistry and synthesis. During his candidature, he participated in research projects offered by NUS’ Department of Chemistry which eventually culminated in a Final Year Project that focused on developing novel synthetic methodology for the functionalisation of native sugars.
Beyond academics, he contributes actively to outreach and student life. He served as the Vice President (Internal) of the NUS Chemical Sciences Society in Academic Year 2022/2023. He was also a Teaching Assistant for the introductory chemistry course CM1102.
Mr Yap will be pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy at NUS’ Department of Chemistry.
C22
Endeavours are not only about the brightest ideas, but the courage to explore, the discipline to innovate and the will to see it to completion.
Mr Ryan Lee graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Pharmaceutical Science with a Second Major in Life Sciences. He was awarded the NUS Global Merit Scholarship and was a Dean’s List recipient.
He is driven by a keen interest in, and passion for pharmaceutical research and undertook various research projects at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, NUS and the Cancer Science Institute Singapore. His dedication culminated in his Final Year Project being awarded the Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher Prize.
Beyond academics, he serves as a Volunteer Adult Leader with Henry Park Primary School and the Singapore Scout Association, where he mentors youths to develop competencies for the 21st century.
Mr Lee has been awarded the President’s Graduate Fellowship and will be pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy at NUS.
C23
‘Follow your heart’. This simple yet powerful guidance has helped me navigate uncertainty and make life decisions that reflect my values and aspirations.
Mr Jonah Goh graduates with a Master of Science (MSc) in Data Science for Sustainability.
Mr Goh completed two internships during his candidature. At Heymax.ai, he contributed to data-driven solutions to optimise user engagement and product performance. At NUS’ Centre for Nature-Based Climate Solutions, he applied machine learning and data analytics to analyse bioacoustics data for biodiversity monitoring in Singapore’s forests.
A key insight he gained from his MSc programme is that meaningful learning extends far beyond the classroom. While lectures are valuable for introducing new concepts, a weekly three-hour class can only cover so much; true learning and growth come from applying what is learned, whether through internships, hands-on projects or real-world experiences.
Mr Goh is now a Quantum Safe Research Engineer at VIAVI Solutions, where he focuses on testing and developing cutting-edge quantum-safe network technologies to help prepare for the post-quantum cryptographic era.
C18
Give your best to the present. Every attempt teaches, every interest pursued matters – even if it’s not your future, you won’t regret the growth it granted.
Mr Mao Kaiwen graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Data Science and Analytics, with Specialisations in Statistical Methodology and Operations Research and Minors in Computer Science, Economics and Quantitative Finance. He was placed on the Dean’s List for five semesters and received the MAS Academic Excellence Prize and the Singapore Prison Service Data Science and Analytics Prize in his second year.
In his Honours Project, he proposed and implemented novel methodologies to simulate and investigate the outbreaks of infectious diseases, with applications on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond academics, Mr Mao served as a teaching assistant for the courses CS1010S/A and IND5003, imparting programming and data science skills to fellow NUS students. In his final year, he was also actively engaged in creating data science workshops as a member of the NUS Statistics and Data Science Society.
He will be pursuing a master’s degree at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
C18
I graduate with immense gratitude for the knowledge, purpose and community I found at NUS. These continue to guide and enrich my journey ahead.
Dr Aakash Lamba graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biological Sciences and is the recipient of the Best Graduate Researcher Award (2023).
He holds a Master of Science in Conservation Science from Imperial College London, United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University, United States.
His doctoral work focused on leveraging nature-based solutions for catalysing climate action, biodiversity preservation and human wellbeing. Dr Lamba integrates ecology, emerging technologies and environmental economics to drive impact. His work has been published in leading journals like Nature Ecology & Evolution.
He is now a Research Fellow at NUS, where he continues his work in advancing sustainability policy and research.
C19
Lead with integrity, treat those around you with empathy and recognise that every individual is our superior in some way – from each, we learn and grow.
Ms Kwok Jing Lin graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Food Science and Technology. She is a recipient of the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship as well as the NUS Student Life Award – Leadership (Distinction), which recognises her exemplary leadership and extracurricular contributions.
Ms Kwok is committed to academic excellence. She self-sourced and completed a year-long Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme in Science (UROPS) research project in food microbiology and safety. She also undertook an internship at the Singapore Food Agency and opted for a final year internship at Food Industry Asia, where she analysed global food policy and regulatory developments.
Beyond academics, Ms Kwok served as Project Director of the NUS FoodTech Challenge (2022), leading her committee in spearheading the competition’s first ever international expansion. She was also invited as a keynote speaker at the Faculty of Science 95th Anniversary Symposium. In service to the wider community, she also served as a Silver Generation Ambassador under the Agency for Integrated Care.
Ms Kwok will be pursuing a Master of Public Health at Imperial College London, United Kingdom, and will thereafter join the Singapore Food Agency.
C19
Lasting transformation rarely arrives with grand spectacle – it often emerges through unwavering consistency, adaptive strategies and the courage to act amidst uncertainties and complexities.
Ms Judith Ko graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Environmental Studies with a Minor in Urban Studies. She is a Public Service Commission Scholar and member of NUS College, and has been placed on the Faculty Dean’s List, the NUSC Honour Roll, Senior Honour Roll and President’s Honour Roll.
Ms Ko served as President of 1.5degreeNUS and Project Director of the Urban Redevelopment Authority Outreach Programme. She presented her award-winning policy paper on equitable decarbonisation at the Blue Zone of the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, after clinching first place at the international Climate Science Olympiad.
She will pursue her Master in Public Policy and Global Affairs at the University of British Columbia, Canada. She aspires to develop participatory policy frameworks that bridge citizens, institutions and the environment.
C20
Embrace uncertainty – take risks, explore new paths and you may find your calling. Regret only comes from chances not taken.
Mr Jeriel Lee graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Life Sciences, with a Specialisation in Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity and a Minor in Forensic Science. He was on the Dean’s List in his third year and is a recipient of the Ngee Ann Kongsi Residential Scholarship Award as well as the Holttum Prize for academic excellence and community contributions.
During his candidacy, he participated in five research assignments, including the prestigious Amgen Scholars Programme. His research on the origins of insect wings using a butterfly model, as well as molecular mechanisms for their development, has been presented locally and internationally.
Mr Lee was also heavily involved in several leadership roles. He was a House Head at Ridge View Residential College and a member of the Special Programme in Science (SPS) Executive Committee. As an SPS mentor, he guided mentees on their research journey through their SPS capstone research projects.
Mr Lee will continue his research at NUS’ Department of Biological Sciences, aiming to publish his work before pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy.
C20
Be true to what you think is right, no matter what others say. People only see where you’ve been and where you are now, but the future you’re shaping is what really counts.
Dr Shi Jia Yu graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mathematics. She was awarded the NUS Research Scholarship to pursue her doctoral studies.
Dr Shi’s research focuses on stochastic control and optimisation, especially their applications in solving portfolio allocation and systematic market-making problems in finance. Her paper was selected for presentation at the 5th ACM International Conference on AI in Finance (2024).
She also actively applies her academic knowledge to industrial practices. She achieved first place in the Citadel APAC Regional Datathon (2021) and joined the JPMorgan Quantitative Research Mentorship Programme (2022). She also participated in the Virtu Financial Winternship Programme and interned as a quantitative researcher at Citadel Securities (2023).
Dr Shi is currently an Equity Derivatives Quantitative Strategist at investment banking company Morgan Stanley.
C21
There are no troughs in life – only a journey of descending one mountain to ascend another towards the next peak.
Ms O’rianna Yew graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) from the inaugural Data Science and Economics cohort. She was placed on the Dean’s List for two semesters.
She explored the fusion of labour economics theory with frontier causal inference tools in her final year capstone project, most notably instrumental forests, to reveal which groups of mothers face the steepest “third-child penalty.” She also implemented reinforcement-learning techniques to engineer portfolio optimisation strategies in financial projects.
As an Economics Research Assistant, Ms Yew reconstructed multicountry datasets and extracted policy-relevant signals from hundreds of economic reports, which contributes to ongoing research. In her final semester, she represented NUS in the University of Chicago Econometrics Game, where she and her team advanced to the finals judged by Nobel Laureates.
She also worked on real-world projects during her internships: scenario planning for Housing & Development Board financing at the Ministry of National Development; helping with article write-ups at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy; and an interactive trade security dashboard at the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Ms Yew will be pursuing a Master in Finance and Private Equity at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
C21
Doing a PhD is nothing like cramming for a test. There’s no answer key. It’s more like solving a puzzle that keeps changing shape.
Dr Yeo Zhen Yuan graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physics.
During his PhD candidature, Dr Yeo developed statistical models for characterising carbon allotropes to enhance battery performance. His research was published in Advanced Materials (2024). His earlier research contributions include discovering a new dengue genotype, published in Nature Scientific Reports.
He revolutionised electron microscopy by creating an Expectation-Maximisation and Compression (EMC)-based algorithm that improved resolution and scaling capability a thousandfold. Through the Special Programme in Science, he also acquired expertise in interdisciplinary scientific research; this led to projects with the National Environment Agency and NUS’ Centre for Advanced 2D Materials that resulted in publications at prestigious journals and conferences.
Dr Yeo will continue as a Research Fellow at NUS’ Department of Statistics and Data Science, applying machine learning methods to detect nanoparticle binding events.
C22
May we all remember to be kind: to ourselves, to those we know and to those we might never meet. It is cliché but so often do we fall short. Never forget that the consequences of our everyday generosity and tiny acts of compassion are far greater than what we could possibly imagine.
Mr Yap Kang Zheng graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Chemistry with a Specialisation in Chemical Research. He attained the Dean’s List and received the Singapore National Institute of Chemistry Medal in Academic Year 2024/2025.
His interest lies in organic chemistry and synthesis. During his candidature, he participated in research projects offered by NUS’ Department of Chemistry which eventually culminated in a Final Year Project that focused on developing novel synthetic methodology for the functionalisation of native sugars.
Beyond academics, he contributes actively to outreach and student life. He served as the Vice President (Internal) of the NUS Chemical Sciences Society in Academic Year 2022/2023. He was also a Teaching Assistant for the introductory chemistry course CM1102.
Mr Yap will be pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy at NUS’ Department of Chemistry.
C22
Endeavours are not only about the brightest ideas, but the courage to explore, the discipline to innovate and the will to see it to completion.
Mr Ryan Lee graduates with Honours (Highest Distinction) in Pharmaceutical Science with a Second Major in Life Sciences. He was awarded the NUS Global Merit Scholarship and was a Dean’s List recipient.
He is driven by a keen interest in, and passion for pharmaceutical research and undertook various research projects at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, NUS and the Cancer Science Institute Singapore. His dedication culminated in his Final Year Project being awarded the Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher Prize.
Beyond academics, he serves as a Volunteer Adult Leader with Henry Park Primary School and the Singapore Scout Association, where he mentors youths to develop competencies for the 21st century.
Mr Lee has been awarded the President’s Graduate Fellowship and will be pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy at NUS.
C23
Mr Chiang Poh Leong
Director of Product Development
Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc
Professor Ng Huck–Hui
Assistant Chief Executive
Research and Talent Development
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Dr Chong Yoke Sin
Chairman
Portfolio Management Committee
Agency for Science, Technology and Research
Ms Ng Hong Yen
Chief Pharmacist and Specialist Pharmacist (Oncology)
Division of Pharmacy
Singapore General Hospital