Dr Ng Sok Hong, Angelia Sia has graduated from the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine with a PhD as part of the Graduating Class of 2023. She began her research career in therapeutic horticulture at NUS Medicine. Dr Ng collaborated with Professor Kua Ee Heok and Professor Roger Ho from the Department of Psychological Medicine to improve the health of seniors and observed positive changes in participants’ biological markers that suggested improved immunity. This led to the development of a second study on therapeutic horticulture intervention. Dr Ng aimed to enhance her research abilities and contribute meaningfully to the design of interventions. Dr Ng even secured the prestigious Ministry of National Development EDGE Scholarship.

Dr Ng’s research shows that interaction with urban greenery can result in many positive health outcomes, laying the groundwork for the implementation of more nature-based interventions in the future. Her passion for plants, green spaces, and sustainability is evident in the works she produces as the Editor-In-Chief of CITYGREEN, an award winning bi-annual publication that delves into issues surrounding greening urban environments.

“Angelia’s work paves the way for a greener, healthier Singapore. With her unwavering composure in the face of adversity and masterful planning, we can look forward to more ground-breaking research and meaningful collaborations that she will bring about in her drive to build a future where green spaces in the community can help uplift the nation’s collective well-being.” – Professor Roger Ho, Department of Psychological Medicine, Dr Ng’s PhD thesis advisor

Dr Ng’s dedication to learning and acquiring new perspectives has inspired her to create knowledge that can encourage health-promoting habits.

Read more about Dr Ng’s story here.