Building on Excellence: A New Chapter in Department Leadership
Welcoming Our New Head of Department: Associate Professor Chew Fook Tim
In July 2026, the Department of Biological Sciences welcomed Associate Professor Chew Fook Tim as our new Head of Department.
Prof Chew obtained his undergraduate degree from Universiti Pertanian Malaysia before pursuing graduate studies at the National University of Singapore (NUS), where he earned his PhD in 1998. He joined NUS as an Assistant Professor in 2001 and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2010.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Prof Chew has held numerous leadership appointments across the University, including serving as Deputy Head of the Department of Biological Sciences, Director of the Environmental Studies Programme, and Vice Dean (Undergraduate Studies & Student Life). In recognition of his outstanding contributions to education and service, he was awarded the Public Administration Medal (Bronze) in 2022.
Widely respected for his contributions to education and academic leadership, Prof Chew played an instrumental role in the development of programmes within the College of Humanities and Sciences (CHS) and has been a strong advocate for overseas learning opportunities that broaden students’ educational experiences. An award-winning educator, he has received numerous teaching honours, including the NUS Annual Teaching Excellence Award.
An internationally recognised researcher, Prof Chew’s work spans both biomedical science and agricultural biotechnology. His research has advanced understanding of the genetic and environmental factors underlying allergic and respiratory diseases, while his pioneering studies on allergen characterisation have contributed to improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. He also leads major population-based research initiatives, including the Singapore/Malaysia Cross-Sectional Genetics Epidemiology Study (SMCGES), which supports precision medicine and public health research in the region. Beyond biomedicine, his work in molecular breeding and sustainable urban agriculture addresses critical challenges in food security, climate resilience, and future food systems. To date, he has published more than 250 scientific papers and reviews and secured numerous competitive research grants.
No stranger to the Department, Prof Chew brings a deep understanding of our community, a strong commitment to academic excellence, and a clear vision for the future. We are delighted to welcome him as Head of Department and look forward to working together under his leadership as we advance the Department’s mission in research, education, and service.
Looking Ahead: Priorities for the Academic Year
As the new academic year begins, Prof Chew has outlined three key priorities for the Department:
Research Excellence and Impact
The Department will continue to strengthen support for high-quality research through enhanced grant development, collaboration opportunities, and mentoring of early-career academics, while increasing the visibility and impact of its research.
Education and Student Experience
Curriculum enhancement, including initiatives related to artificial intelligence in the life sciences and other emerging fields, will remain a focus. The Department will also continue to support innovative teaching and provide a rewarding student experience.
Culture, Wellbeing, and Collegiality
Prof Chew is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where communication is open, contributions are recognised, and faculty, staff, and students can thrive.
Reflecting on the opportunities ahead, Prof Chew shared:
“I am excited about what we can achieve together. The talent, commitment, and collegial spirit in this Department are tremendous, and I truly believe we have an opportunity to build on our strengths and take the Department to even greater heights, together and with purpose.”
We warmly welcome Prof Chew and look forward to working together as we advance the Department’s mission in research, education, and service.
Celebrating the Leadership and Contributions of Professor Yu Hao
As we welcome a new chapter for the Department, we also extend our heartfelt appreciation to Professor Yu Hao for his outstanding leadership as Head of the Department of Biological Sciences from 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2026.
During his nine-year tenure, Prof Yu guided the Department through a period of significant growth and transformation. He successfully led the implementation of the CHS curriculum, oversaw the growth of the Life Sciences major into the largest programme in the Faculty of Science, and expanded the Department’s Master’s programmes.
He also strengthened the Department’s research ecosystem through initiatives such as the establishment of the Research Centre on Sustainable Urban Farming (SUrF) and the recruitment of outstanding faculty members, including seven Presidential Young Professors.
Beyond these achievements, Prof Yu fostered a vibrant and collaborative academic community while advancing the Department’s reputation for excellence in research and education.
We are deeply grateful to Prof Yu for his visionary leadership, and his management team for their dedicated service, and lasting contributions to the Department and Faculty. On behalf of the entire Department, we thank him and wish him every success in his future endeavours.
