Wilson Chu

Interest in bacteria infectious diseases

Singapore

About

2023 PhD graduate. Investigated the role of the large virulence plasmid in hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae. Techniques learnt include animal models, flow cytometry, PCR (end-point and real-time qPCR), bacterial cloning, Western blot and tissue cell culturing. First author publication in mBio, co-author of 3 other publications. Mentored two undergraduate students for their Final Year Project.

Experience

  • Scientist at A*STAR Infectious Diseases Labs - A*STAR IDL
    Jan 2025 - Present · 1 yr 7 mos

  • Scientific Officer at National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID)
    Mar 2023 - Dec 2024 · 1 yr 10 mos

    Bacterial Surveillance in Singapore such as Salmonella spp, Carbapenem Resistant Enterobacterales, Vibrio spp, Leptospira spp, Shigella spp, etc using microbiology and molecular testing techniques, including end-point and real-time PCR, serotyping, culturing and whole genome sequencing. Co-section in charge of a team of 7, managing BSL-1 and BSL-2 laboratory operations. Drafted and revised work instructions for proper documentation of laboratory test protocols, to conform to ISO 15189. Verified test results and meeting turnaround time for reporting of statistics to MOH. Coordinated and supported bacterial foodborne outbreak investigations with MOH.

  • Research Assistant / PhD Graduate Student at National University of Singapore
    Jan 2018 - Feb 2023 · 5 yrs 2 mos

    - Investigated the role of large virulence plasmid in hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae fitness and pathogenesis - Discovered a novel iron-dependent regulation of the Type 3 Fimbriae through an uncharacterised small protein, affecting biofilm, cell adhesion and in vivo gut colonization. - Mentored two undergraduate honours students for their Final Year Project, both attained high grades and continued Ph.D. studies, with my first student awarded the President's Graduate Scholarship and my second student awarded the Sim Kit Peng Honors Book Price for outstanding project achievement. - Conferences attended: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Response (New York, Sep 2019) and International Symposium on Plasmid Biology Meeting (Toulouse, Sep 2022). - 1 first author and 2 co-authored publications

  • Teaching Intern at Ministry of Education, Singapore (MOE)
    May 2016 - Jul 2016 · 3 mos

    Taught English and Science from Primary 2 to Primary 4 level at Punggol View Primary School. Co-coached students in floorball together with teachers in charge and instructor to promote the sport and develop students’ interests.

  • Temporary Staff at Experia Events Pte Ltd
    Nov 2013 - Mar 2014 · 5 mos

    Facilitated overseas and local delegates' hospitality arrangements during the Singapore Air Show 2014.