In the Year of Celebrating SG Women, we present stories which showcase and celebrate women’s multi-faceted contributions and progress at SNEC and SERI.

Join us to honour and acknowledge our team of amazing women who have made impact in the field of Ophthalmology, inspiring those around them with their brand of ethos in life.

Assoc Prof Monisha Esther Nongpiur
Clinician Scientist and Junior Principal Investigator, Glaucoma Research Group, SERI

In your dual roles as Clinician Scientist and Researcher, which do you prefer and why?
Being a clinician scientist and a researcher allows me to straddle the two fascinating fields of clinical medicine and scientific research. I enjoy both. These roles provide me with a unique opportunity to perform clinically impactful research that is inspired by patient care, and likewise, translating research discoveries into clinical practice.

What are you working on now and how will it benefit patients?
My main research interest is in primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG), with a focus on characterising the underlying mechanisms for the disease. My research integrates clinical studies, imaging and genetics. My work is currently focused on unravelling the markers of disease progression, as well as developing a patient stratification tool to help clinicians identify early subjects who are at risk of severe disease.

What are some of the challenges that we need to work on to facilitate more women to work in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)?
Perhaps one of the prevailing challenges that should be overcome is the mindset and societal biases that STEM careers are not for women. These biases that start in childhood continue into adolescence and adulthood. Therefore, creating a positive and encouraging environment for girls to learn and be confident in STEM subjects should start at an early age. Changing perceptions can open up immense opportunities for women to progress and excel in scientific and engineering fields. At the workplace, steps that would go a long way to increase the representation of women in the STEM workforce include creating an inclusive environment that does not penalise career breaks, supporting flexible work arrangements that do not jeopardise output rate or performance quality, and providing equal opportunities that are focused on competency.

What message do you have for young girls and women keen to pursue a STEM career?
Go for it!! There is no limit. Amaze the world with your achievements and potential.

Click here to check out the Women of Vision  series.