Ong Wee Jun

Course: Bachelor of Chemical Engineering (Honours), 2012 and Doctor of Philosophy, 2016
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: Research Scientist, Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) (Singapore)

Please tell us about your role in your current organisation.

I am actively involved in research, focusing on energy-related applications using hybrid nanocomposites (i.e. photocatalysis, photoelectrocatalysis and electrocatalysis) for energy conversion, storage and environmental remediation toward a sustainable future.

I am also co-supervising PhD students in research projects of energy conversion and storage toward sustainable energy production. I provide my professional services, including journal reviewer, editorial board member, guest editor, conference organising committee member and so forth, as well.

Why did you choose to study Chemical Engineering?

One of the main reasons is that from studying Chemical Engineering, I obtain a number of priceless skills, which are undoubtedly advantageous for my future career. As chemical engineers, we acquire diversified knowledge of chemistry, engineering, materials science, nanotechnology and biotechnology. We also learn process safety, economics and management. As such, chemical engineering provides a broad range of career opportunities, spanning from scientific research as chemical engineers to a high management level in multinational companies.

Furthermore, I always believe that chemical engineers can change the world to safeguard the environment by developing smart alternative technologies to mitigate environmental issues and enhance our quality of life. In short, chemical engineering is indeed rewarding and interesting.

What made you decide to continue your postgraduate studies at Monash?

I’ve always been interested and motivated in academic study, and my keen interest and passion in research led me to pursue my PhD degree in Chemical Engineering. In view of the competitive job market, I believe that obtaining a PhD degree from a reputable university adds an extra edge to facilitate future employability.

Considering Monash University’s global reputation, leading-edge research infrastructure and ranking, I was confident in my decision to continue pursuing my PhD at Monash. Importantly, I bear in mind Monash’s motto, Ancora Imparo (a.k.a. I’m still learning). Lifelong learning is of utmost significance and I have full faith in Monash, that the University would be able to serve as an excellent platform to support my goals and objectives towards future success.

How have your studies at Monash helped to prepare you for the working world?

For my bachelor’s and PhD degrees in Chemical Engineering, Monash has considerably given me a strong foundation in the research-related fields of materials science, chemistry, catalysis and nanotechnology. This has helped to expand my research horizons and networking, and importantly, it has boosted my confidence in the working world as I am familiar with the fundamental principles related to nanotechnology. As such, this aids to accelerate my knowledge to be a future research leader in that particular field.

Both degrees have also helped to open up diverse career paths in universities, industries and research institutes. Considering my four-year bachelor’s and three-and-a-half-year PhD studies, this has moulded me into a preeminent early career researcher and I will continue to strive for the best in research for a better and sustainable environment.

Did you go for any internships or work placements?

I went for a three-month internship at MOX-Linde Sdn Bhd during my undergraduate studies. This exposed me to the working environment of a chemical plant and gave me the opportunity to apply the knowledge I’ve learned in class to real-life processes.

When I was a PhD student, I conducted research at the University of New South Wales, Sydney and Monash University’s Clayton campus in Melbourne, Australia for half a year, made possible by the Endeavour Research Fellowship Award 2015 and the Global Scholar Award 2015 awarded by Australian Government Department of Education and Monash University Malaysia respectively. During my research attachment in Australia, I was exposed to well-resourced labs and cutting-edge technologies. This helped me create linkages, scientific discussions and long-term mutual collaborations with the researchers in Australia.

Did you participate in any student activities or opportunities while at Monash?

During my PhD studies, I attended several seminars/talks by distinguished professors, researchers and scientists, organised by the School of Engineering. One of the most memorable talks was given by Professor Bo-Qing Xu from Tsinghua University, China. I was very impressed with his talk, which focused on the nanoscale architecture of Au noble metal from the perspective of chemistry.

I was also exposed to well-resourced laboratories and analytical instruments, which allowed me to propel my research activities in nanotechnology. I participated in a number of research award competitions, namely the Global Scholar Award and Endeavour Research Fellowship, which offered me the chances to visit and long-term research networking with the University of New South Wales and Monash University.

I would like to sincerely thank my PhD supervisors (i.e. Professor Dr Chai Siang Piao and Dr Estee Yong Siek Ting) as well as School of Engineering at Monash University Malaysia for giving me vast opportunities and a conducive research environment to excel in my research in catalysis and nanotechnology.

What did you enjoy most about your student life at Monash?

The people that I met significantly influenced me to be a better person. This includes my thesis advisors Professor Dr Chai Siang Piao and Dr Estee Yong Siek Ting, lecturers from the School of Engineering and a number of close friends, who have constantly given me moral support and accompanied me during my ups and downs. I really treasure those friendships! PhD is not an easy degree and it is indeed the ultimate assessment of my patience, toughness, endurance, strength and perseverance.

To all the present and future students, enjoy your university life! This is the best time to meet people. Enjoy the precious time with friends, try to find a balance between work and social life and most importantly, do not forget to have fun. Work hard, study hard and live life to the fullest. Good luck!

What are your career goals?

Further down the track, I would like to be a principal investigator and lead a multidisciplinary research team to work on sustainable energy and environment development. I want to contribute my knowledge and expertise by coordinating, supervising and guiding the next generation of scholars and scientists. I also aim to be a professor at an energy institute or university, focusing on renewable energy to shape the future and transform global challenges into opportunities to create a better, sustainable world. I would like to lead and become an editor of a scientific journal and publish high-quality science and breakthrough research for the benefit of the scientific community.