Mums Making Science and Tech Look Easy - The Adaptable Researcher

PHOTO and GRAPHIC: Melody Ho and Tang Ying Hui

The need for a laboratory to screen Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives (CBRNE) threats at Singapore’s air checkpoints became apparent with the COVID-19 pandemic. Such a laboratory is now being constructed at Changi Airfreight Centre. Among those driving its development is Anna Lim, Deputy Director, Research, CBRNE, Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX).

This integrated testing and research laboratory is a meaningful milestone in Anna’s 16 years of strengthening Singapore’s security. In peace time, this facility will facilitate joint R&D projects with the Ministry of Health in testing and developing breakthrough technologies for pandemic preparedness. HTX staff also conduct daily CBRNE analysis there to support Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for air border surveillance, testing and detection of CBRNE threats. In crisis time, the laboratory will be repurposed to support pandemic testing.

As the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted to Anna, it is critical to develop cutting-edge research technologies and techniques. Explaining why she feels her involvement in this laboratory is significant in improving Singapore’s security, Anna said, “This lab plays a critical role in preparing Singapore for future pandemics, so that we can respond better.”

Doing proof-of-concept projects, such as this portable device that identifies biothreats, allows Anna to test new technologies that potentially enhance Home Team’s operations. PHOTO: Tang Ying Hui

Upskilling with the Latest Technologies

Anna’s team uses several tools to facilitate their research and operations. At Anna’s suggestion, the team switched from using Excel to data visualisation tools like Power BI and Tableau to sort, make sense of the data from their research and present their findings. “These data visualisation tools make the data more reader-friendly and saves our bosses time. They no longer have to review large Excel sheets that we used to prepare,” Anna explained.

Anna keeps abreast of new scientific reviews to develop new technologies. PHOTO: Tang Ying Hui

Given the ever-changing nature of her work, where technology advances and aids her research, Anna emphasises the importance of constantly upskilling. “When I did my Master’s Degree in Bioinformatics, we were taught C+ programming, Java programming. These are still essential, but it has progressed to another level, like Python or R programming.” 

Anna enrolled in a Data Analytics course in a local university last year, focused on R Programming, to keep pace with the latest technologies. She made it a point to be well versed with the curriculum, so that she could make full use of it in her job. “I think upskilling is essential to help us keep up-to-date, especially when AI and other technologies are moving so fast.”

Growing as a Home Team Mother

Quality time and conversations with her family are important to Anna. PHOTO: Anna Lim

Anna is a mother of two - an 18-year-old son and a 15-year-old daughter. They often have misconceptions about their mother’s job. They are most interested in the “explosives” aspect of CBRNE research, asking her if she can make bombs in her lab just like in the movies.

When she joined the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2009, she embraced the organisation’s values of discipline and resilience and sought to impart them to her toddlers.  

Now that her children are grown up, Anna focuses on other aspects such as spending quality time together. “I make it a point to have dinner or lunch together with them during weekends. We try to avoid using electronic gadgets at the dining table, so that we have quality conversations.”

Leading with Empathy

Empathy when communicating with others is important to Anna. PHOTO: Melody Ho

Her experience as a mother and member of the Home Team has shaped her approach to leadership. “Mentoring my team is important. I have staff who are young with aspirations and staff who are planning to be a mum. We exercise empathy and work life integration.”

She prioritises open communication and encourages giving and listening to different perspectives. For example, Anna will involve potential users of innovative technologies early in the technology’s development, if she feels that the technology has the potential to exponentially improve the Home Team’s work. By having open discussions on user requirements and the possibilities and limitations of the technology, Anna makes strides in the operationalisation of the technology. With empathy and collaboration, Anna drives meaningful innovation with lasting impact.