Title:    Materials for Healthcare

Time:     2025-03-24 16:30

Lecturer:  Xian Jun Loh

                  A*STAR, Singapore

Venue:    Room 202, Lu-Jiaxi Building

Bio of Xian Jun Loh：

Professor Loh Xian Jun is a distinguished leader and a Highly Cited Researcher in engineering, research, and entrepreneurship. As Executive Director of the Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE) and Adjunct Professor at NUS and NTU, he has advanced biodegradable thermogels with applications in biomedicine, cosmetics, and food. He is a Fellow of the Singapore National Academy of Science, Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, Fellow of the Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, Fellow of Institution of Engineering and Technology, Fellow of the Singapore National Institute of Chemistry. Professor Loh's pioneering work on biodegradable thermogels has transformed biomedical solutions, including treatments for retinal scarring and orthopedic applications. His self-assembling hydrogel, activated by body warmth, has revolutionized healthcare. His breakthroughs in soft materials address sustainability and healthcare challenges. He is the first to engineer thermogels regenerating vitreous humor, opening new treatments for retinal detachment and macular degeneration. As co-founder of Vitreogel Innovations, Professor Loh has commercialized eight products, including vitreous endotamponades for retinal surgeries. His collaboration with Plasma Science developed "Trident" air sanitizers, a critical innovation during COVID-19, eliminating airborne viruses and bacteria. These ventures earned accolades like the Emerging Enterprise Award 2022. As President of the Singapore National Institute of Chemistry, he champions chemistry’s advancement through education, outreach, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He also contributes to international and national scientific growth, serving on panels for the Körber Science Prize and A*STAR Talent Search. Professor Loh's accolades include the Public Administration Medal (Silver), the Highly Cited Researcher Award, and fellowships from prestigious academies worldwide, reflecting his profound contributions to science, innovation, and societal benefit.