Bridging Perspectives in Academic Medicine: Reflections from A/Prof Chang Ching-yi’s Engagements with SingHealth Duke-NUS Pathology ACP

Published on 20 August 2026

A/Prof Chang, Associate Research Professor of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology at Duke University, worked closely with Pathology ACP faculty to shape joint research projects, guide experimental design, provide strategic input in developing grant applications and mentor junior clinicians from Pathology ACP.

You spent two weeks in July engaging with colleagues across Pathology ACP and the wider SingHealth Duke-NUS AMC. Looking back, what stood out most to you?

Ching-yi:

"All aspects of my visit were great, the most memorable was meeting with faculty, staff, and trainees from diverse disciplines in both individual and group settings. I particularly appreciate their openness and candour in sharing not only their exciting scientific discoveries but also the challenges and obstacles they face in their work. Their honesty, enthusiasm, and collaborative spirit left a lasting impression on me."

As this was your first visit to Singapore, what surprised you most, professionally or personally?

Ching-yi:

"I expected Singapore to be highly urbanised, but I was pleasantly surprised to see so much greenery and how walkable it is. I was also genuinely struck by the warmth, hospitality and openness of everyone I met. From conversations about science to discussions about culture and food, there was a sense of ease that made me feel less like a visitor and more like an old friend!"

During your visit, you met with clinicians, researchers, and trainees, and delivered a Research Grand Round. What were some of the most meaningful scientific discussions or ideas that emerged?

Ching-yi:

"I found the opportunity to engage with investigators from diverse backgrounds and learn about local research and training priorities particularly meaningful. These conversations inspired me to think about how broader interdisciplinary collaborations can be incorporated into my own research and how we can leverage our complementary expertise and resources to develop successful joint grant opportunities."

On Collaboration Opportunities

Your visit sparked plans for joint research in breast and prostate cancer. Which areas are you particularly excited to pursue together?

Ching-yi:

"We have already initiated a joint effort to validate one of the promising new targets we recently identified which may play a role in disease progression during endocrine therapy. We are particularly excited to investigate its therapeutic significance in both prostate and breast cancers. I believe by combining our expertise we can accelerate the validation of this pathway and translate our findings to the clinic."

There are also plans to collaborate with Pathology ACP on future ACP and national grant calls. In your experience, what does it take to build an international partnership that lasts?

Ching-yi:

"A few things come to mind: strong personal relationships, shared scientific interest, complementary expertise, mutual benefit, and regular interactions to maintain engagement. I believe we already check many of these boxes, the key now is to remain committed to ensure that the partnership stays productive for the long term."