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A Leader in Cancer Research

​Asst Prof Ong Choon Kiat, Principal Investigator, Division of Cellular & Molecular Research, NCCS

To the best of Asst Prof Ong Choon Kiat’s knowledge, he is probably the only Principal Investigator (PI) at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) who was locally trained and groomed. The relative rarity was a strong impetus and drive for him to pursue medical oncology, an area of research that could significantly impact clinical outcomes.

As a principal investigator, he leads a group of scientists and assumes responsibility for conducting research, which includes obtaining the necessary funds for research studies. Over the years, Asst Prof Ong has led research in various cancers prevalent in Asia, including lymphoma, cholangiocarcinoma and fibroepithelial tumours of the breast.

 “Moving up the ranks to become PI is a great challenge that few have undertaken. I’m proud that I took up the challenge, to continue to lead cancer research and improve patients’ outcomes ,” he said.

His dedication to his research interest was rewarded in 2018, when Asst Prof Ong, along with other collaborating scientists in the field of cancer research, received the “AACR Team Science Award” by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). The award recognises the outstanding work of the interdisciplinary team in furthering the knowledge of Asian prevalent cancers and contributing to the progress of cancer detection, treatment and prevention.