In late November 2024, Lam Quang Thien earned his degree in applied chemistry from Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCMC).

He is set to further his studies with the prestigious SINGA PhD scholarship at the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Thien, 22, is distinguished by his youth, academic achievements, and an inspiring journey defined by responsibility, passion, and resilience.

Sense of responsibility

Starting in high school, Thien developed a deep concern for environmental issues.

He vividly remembers his mother meticulously folding plastic bags for reuse and reading reports about Vietnam being ranked fourth among the top 20 countries contributing plastic waste to the ocean.

These experiences fueled his determination to make a meaningful environmental impact.

During his time at VNU-HCMC, Thien consistently excelled. He earned a full scholarship, graduated with honors, received a silver medal, and ranked as the second-highest graduate in the biotechnology department.

Thien’s research accomplishments were equally impressive. He was the lead author of one research paper and co-authored two others published in prestigious journals.

These included a Q2 journal, ranked among the top 50 globally, and a Q1 journal, ranked among the top 25 -- a reflection of their influence and prestige in academic publishing.

Just five days before his graduation, a professor of chemistry from NUS traveled to personally interview Thien and assess his research potential.

Within three days, Thien received an offer of admission, which was soon followed by the announcement that he had been awarded the SINGA scholarship.

This prestigious scholarship, granted by Singapore's Ministry of Education, supports international doctoral candidates.

In a rare acknowledgment of his potential, NUS granted him early admission, enabling him to begin the PhD program six months ahead of schedule to “ensure his enthusiasm and research progress is uninterrupted.”

In search of green material solutions

At NUS, Thien’s research focuses on developing catalytic methods for material synthesis that minimize energy consumption and emissions, advancing green production technologies.

"Vietnam is among the countries contributing significant plastic waste to the ocean, coupled with high levels of toxic emissions. This motivates me to pursue green material solutions for a sustainable future," Thien explained.

He draws inspiration from key figures in his life. His mother, a university lecturer, instilled in him the values of kindness, sincerity, and the philosophy of 'contentment' or 'knowing sufficiency,' which she believed were essential for a calm and balanced mind.

Thien also credits his mentor, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tan Khoi, for guiding him through a multidisciplinary research approach.

Dr. Khoi’s lessons were concise, creative, often sprinkled with humor, yet profoundly effective in shaping Thien's academic journey.

Thien’s story embodies the drive of a passionate young individual committed to making a difference.

With a PhD scholarship from NUS, he is set to advance his vision of a sustainable future where humanity and nature thrive in harmony.

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