During his time at the Neurosurgery department of the National University Hospital, Dr Foo Song Chuan, Aaron executed several successful clinical research projects which showcased his aptitude for research. Seeing Dr Foo’s potential, his supervisor asked if he would pursue becoming a Clinician Scientist. Despite facing a pay cut and missing out on a promotion, Dr Foo was determined to become a Clinician Scientist and embarked on his PhD under the guidance of Prof Soong Tuck Wa with just two years left in his residency. Dr Foo has since graduated and is the Valedictorian for the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine Graduating PhD Class of 2023.

Dr Foo believes in delivering exceptional care to patients by translating scientific discoveries into therapeutic solutions. His PhD journey has improved his clinical skills, including faster surgical techniques, critical analysis, and patient patience. Dr Foo has also learned to manage his clinical team and resources effectively.

Dr Foo’s transformation has inspired colleagues to pursue their PhDs, as he believes in raising the bar for practice by doing research and starting small. He has resumed his residency training and has published a paper on SIRIUS, SIRIUS, an ultra-Scintillating upconversion breast implant that is capable of large field, high intensity illumination for photodynamic therapy of deep-seated tumors in ACS Nano.

“Aaron has risen above tough challenges, taken the bull by its horn, and succeeded. With this resilient mindset, I am confident he will benefit patients and be an asset to the healthcare and biomedical sector with his continued excellence in clinical practice and research work.”– Prof Soong Tuck Wah, Department of Physiology, Aaron’s thesis advisor

Dr Foo hopes to work on research projects exploring topics like neuro oncology, molecular biology and perhaps even Artificial Intelligence in the future.

Read more about Dr Foo’s story here.