About the Project
Our lab is seeking a driven PhD candidate to join us at the intersection of Materials Science, Analytical Chemistry and Biomolecular Engineering. The focus of this PhD research program is built upon a strategic roadmap that utilizes functional polymers and nanoparticles to engineer nanotechnology-based sensors designed to interface well with complex living systems.
PhD projects will be situated within our two primary research thrusts: (1) Rational Sensor Design for Agricultural Resilience, where we are expanding a library of optical nano-sensors to monitor a broad spectrum of plant signalling molecules and environmental analytes in situ. This thrust aims to enable early asymptomatic detection of plant stress, which allows farmers to proactively protect their agricultural yields. (2) Human Health and Diagnostics, which focused on development of rapid diagnostic tools for microbiome biomarkers. By directly and rapidly measuring gut metabolites, we aim to provide clinicians with tools to distinguish between healthy states and active inflammation. Supported by a robust network of collaborators from National University Hospital (NUH), Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory (TLL), Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART), and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), these projects are highly interdisciplinary and translational, designed to empower stakeholders with actionable, data-driven insights in both clinical and agricultural settings.
Important Note
- The topics listed above are not exhaustive. Prospective PhD candidates are welcome to propose their own research ideas.
- Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact potential supervisors at least 3 months before the application deadline, as the process of identifying a suitable supervisor and preparing a research proposal may require time.
When you email Assistant Professor Mervin Ang, please:
- Introduce yourself and send your curriculum vitae
- Share about your academic background
- Provide information on your research interests and how it is aligned with this project
- And how you hope to achieve your PhD aspirations
Minimum Entry Requirement:
- A Bachelor's degree with honours at least at Second Class Upper level, Master's degree in the relevant areas and the ability to pursue research in the candidate's proposed field of advanced study.
- Shortlisted applicants will undergo an interview session as part of the selection process.
- A valid GRE score is required for applicants who are not graduates of the Autonomous Universities in Singapore. See detailed requirements for English language on competency and GRE requirements here.
Funding Notes
Prestigious scholarships offered by the Nanyang Technological University allows outstanding PhD students to pursue their research endeavours at a world-class university. At NTU, we recognize academic excellence and research potential that will help you focus on making groundbreaking discoveries in your field.
For Scholarships and Awards: View Website
