Posted: August 26, 2010

Three nanoscientists awarded L'Oreal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellowships 2010

(Nanowerk News) Three exceptional women in science were celebrated today for their contribution to material sciences through the L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellowships 2010.
In its second year, the Fellowships is organised with the support of the Singapore National Commission for UNESCO and in partnership with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). The Fellowships aim to recognise the significant contribution of talented women to scientific progress, encourage young women to pursue science as a career and promote their effective participation in the scientific development of Singapore. Dr Ng Eng Hen, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence, and Chairman of the Singapore National Commission for UNESCO, said: "The Singapore National Commission for UNESCO is proud to support this meaningful programme which serves to nurture talented young women in science and research."
The three outstanding women were awarded fellowships worth S$20,000 to support them in their doctorate or post-doctorate research. This year's National Fellows are:
– Dr. Low Hong Yee, 2010 L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellow and Senior Scientist at A*STAR's Institute of Materials Research and Engineering. Her work in nanoimprint technology, an emerging technique in nanotechnology, focuses on eco solutions and brings to reality the ability to mimic and apply on synthetic surfaces the structure found in naturally occurring exteriors or skin such as the iridescent colours of a butterfly's wings or the water-proofing of lotus leaves. This new development offers an eco-friendly, non-chemical method to improve the properties and functionalities of common plastic film.
– Dr. Madhavi Srinivasan, 2010 L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellow and Assistant Professor at the Nanyang Technological University. Dr Srinivasan seeks to harness the power of nanoscale materials for the answer to the future of energy storage. Such technologies are vital for the future of a clean energy landscape. Its applications include powering electric vehicles, thus reducing overall CO2 emission, and reducing global warming or enhancing renewable energy sources (solar/wind), thus reducing pollution and tapping on alternative energy supplies.
– Dr. Yang Huiying, 2010 L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellow and Assistant Professor at Singapore University of Technology and Design. Dr Yang's fascination with the beauty of the nano-world prompted her research into the fabrication of metal oxide nanostructures, investigation of their optical properties, and the development of nanophotonics devices. These light emitting devices will potentially be an answer to the need for energy-saving and lower cost display screens, LED bulbs, TV and DVD players etc.
The recipients of the L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellowships were determined by a jury panel comprised of eminent members of the scientific community in Singapore. The Awards ceremony took place today with key members of the scientific community present. Mr. Lim Chuan Poh, Chairman of A*STAR, was the Guest-of-Honour.
Mr. Lim Chuan Poh, Chairman of A* STAR, said: "It is heartening that the L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellowships honour the work of these exceptional women in Singapore. In line with Singapore's aim to be Asia's Innovation Capital, their quest for knowledge and, more specifically, solutions to the world's challenges is inspiring to the general scientific community, and to other aspiring women scientists."
Mr. Christopher Neo, Managing Director, L'Oréal Singapore said: "The L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellowships support female scientists pursuing research locally, and highlight them as role models for young women in science. The three award recipients have displayed passion and determination in finding solutions to important global issues – we're pleased to recognise such excellence. Science is the bedrock of the L'Oréal business, and we pledge our long-term commitment to Singapore's scientific progress through this programme."
Professor Leo Tan, Jury President, L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellowships 2010 and Member of the Singapore National Commission for UNESCO and Chairman of the Science Sub-Commission said: "The L'Oréal Singapore For Women in Science National Fellowships is a welcome boost for any young woman scientist. The members of the jury are particularly committed to recognising and encouraging young, talented women scientists in Singapore. The three young For Women in Science National Fellows now have the responsibility of being role models for the scientists of tomorrow. Their courage and vision may also one day find solutions to the world's most pressing issues. Let's congratulate them and urge them on."
L'Oréal and UNESCO joined forces 12 years ago to create the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme built on the simple belief that the world needs science and science needs women. Today, this programme is available in 93 countries and nearly 1,000 women have been recognised.
Source: A*STAR