I am currently a PhD candidate in bioengineering at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. My research experiences have spanned a variety of fields including synthetic chemistry, materials characterization, semiconductor physics, optics, nanomedicine, biochemistry and genetics. I am an inventor on 2 patents and have published 7 peer-reviewed articles. I am the CEO and cofounder of Mamosound, a Hong Kong startup with a social mission to provide equal access to early breast cancer detection through the implementation of new cost saving technologies. I have previously held research positions at The National University of Singapore, Tsinghua University (China), Chiba University (Japan) and Rice University (Houston). I have completed a triple major in chemistry, biochemistry and physiology at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (USA). I’m passionate about translational research and improving the way innovations are spread. Toward this goal, I am currently pursuing a career as a patent attorney. More randomly, I have been a High School science bowl coach, spent over a combined year hammock camping am love spearfishing.
Our goal is to make early breast cancer detection more accessible and affordable to women through the implementation of new technology. Mamosound combines deep learning software with advanced biomedical ultrasound hardware to create the world’s first breast cancer screening device for home use. We are uniquely positioned to market to rural clinics and urban community centers as well as directly to at risk women. Mamosound is a Hong Kong registered start up.
My doctoral thesis is on the biomedical applications and delivery of non-conventional fluorophores. I have been involved in the organic synthesis and material characterization of new luminescent molecules. I have found new applications for these luminescent molecules in a wide range of fields in nanomedicine, biology, OLEDs and optics. I have collaborated broadly during my PhD studies with labs across the world. I have published seven peer-reviewed articles and have 2 patents.
Researching sustainable biofuels and biomaterials under Professor Tong. This program is a major collaboration between Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) and National University of Singapore (NUS). My research focused on the design and implementation of efficient aerobic bioreactors and modeling algae growth. This project was conducted within the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.
Chemistry department teaching fellowship award. Developed and implemented a nanomaterials experiment for the undergraduate honors general chemistry laboratory. The experiment investigated the nanoscale optical properties, stability and synthesis of colloidal gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) by performing a colorimetric aggregation assay.
Synthesized silicon capped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) for controlled drug release. Participated in Chinese culture and language studies.
Fabricated graphene field effect transistors (GR-FETs) for applications in GHz/THz nanosensing. Improved experimental GHz transconductance components which drastically increased the frequency response and utility of GR-FETs. Characterized the backgate voltage dependence of GHz transconductance in single/bilayer GR-FETs.Participated in Japanese culture and language studies.
Synthesized multifunctional mesoporous silica nanoparticles for theranostic applications. Investigated their surface and chemical morphology using a variety of materials characterization techniques. Analyzed their drug delivery performance and biocompatibility.
Investigated new mild chemical methods for the synthesis of peptides and small proteins.
Trained in CPR/AED and as an Emergency Medical First Responder. Taught swimming lessons to young kids from ages 4-8 at an urban indoor community center in St. Paul, Minnesota.
GPA: 3.97
Thesis: Biomedical Applications and Delivery of Non-Conventional Fluoophores
GPA: 3.74, Magna Cum Laude
Thesis: Fabrication and Characterization of Biomedical Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and Graphene Field Effect Transistors for THz Sensing
GPA: 3.95
Class Rank 3/564
Completed a total of 8 AP exams. Completed one year of full-time undergraduate coursework at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities through the PSEO program during my senior year of High School.
I am a lover of food and nature. I enjoy spearfishing, hunting, gardening and foraging for wild food. I love being able to provide fresh and sustainably sourced food for my friends and family. I enjoy traveling around the world. My goal is to experience life as authentically as I can so that I can build a sustainable life philosophy.
Other things I love: motorcycles, kayaking, skiing, dancing, reggae music, reading and good wine.