SSEF Gold, ISEF 4th and SAAS Special Awards

Singapore Science and Engineering Fair (SSEF), International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and Singapore Association for the Advancement of Science (SAAS) 2023
 Georia Ang Shi Qi and Tricia Tan Hui Xin,
Chung Cheng High School (Yishun)
Supervisors: Prof Sow Chorng Haur and Dr Sharon Lim Xiaodai

Laser Tuned Micro-fluorescence in Fish Scales for Steganography and Chemical Sensing

From fish waste to chemical detector – students from Chung Cheng High School (Yishun) transformed fish scale waste into portable detector through controlled laser heating!

With minimal prior experience, we embarked on our scientific journey at the Nanomaterials Research Lab, hoping to expand our knowledge, gain new experiences and create unforgettable memories. Little did we know that this would ignite our passion for scientific research. Through the many hardships we faced, we experienced the bittersweetness of research, encountering many failed samples until we finally got a successful outcome. The impact of this experience will forever shape our paths, inspiring us to keep persevering in our constant pursuit of learning! We are incredibly grateful to our mentor, labmates and scientific instruments for making this an immensely meaningful and enriching journey, one which we will always cherish.

My experience in the nanomaterials lab was the true turning point in my scientific journey and it wouldn't have been possible without the invaluable mentorship I received from the esteemed mentors and professors. From the day I joined, my mentors warmly welcomed me into the world of research and guided me through various experiments and projects, helping me develop crucial skills and insights. Their patience, encouragement and expertise also allowed me to grow in the field of science, and I am deeply grateful for their unwavering support throughout this incredible experience. Their dedication to fostering a collaborative and stimulating environment has not only enriched my understanding of scientific concepts but also nurtured my passion for exploration and discovery. Witnessing their enthusiasm for research has also inspired me to pursue a science career in the future. I leave this lab with a newfound confidence in my abilities and a profound appreciation for the role mentors play in shaping aspiring scientists. This journey has truly been life-changing, and I look forward to continuing my pursuit of scientific knowledge with their guidance and inspiration.