‘We must share our knowledge to advance science more efficiently’

Lab product reviews can change the world by helping other scientists find the best equipment to accelerate their vital work. Here at SelectScience^®, we are dedicated to promoting peer-to-peer communication that will make the difference - but we couldn't do it without our esteemed reviewers. In this regular new feature, we put the spotlight on some of our most dedicated and impactful reviewers and find out what inspires them to keep sharing their knowledge with the global scientific community.

Here, our latest Reviewer in the Spotlight, Phoebe Koh Kang Sheing, assistant laboratory manager at the National University of Singapore, tells us about her role in a translational multidisciplinary research lab and how collaboration with peers across the world makes scientific research more cost-effective and efficient.

Tell us about your role and your current research

I am an assistant laboratory manager performing a research support role in a translational multidisciplinary research laboratory. My role includes purchasing reagents and equipment for the lab, managing the research project budget, safety, and other administrative duties.

What inspired you to get into the world of science?

I was interested in science since elementary school and entered the biomedical sciences field as an undergraduate as it was a popular field at that time. During my time as an undergraduate, I took up a research project and realized this was the path I would like to undergo for a career.

Why is communication vital in science?

With limited funding opportunities worldwide, it’s not possible for a single principal investigator to cover a wide span of in-depth studies. Collaboration with labs all across the world would make research more cost-effective and efficient. Sharing of information and experience would benefit researchers to get a holistic understanding of a topic in a shorter time frame.

Why do you think lab equipment reviews are important?

Lab equipment reviews enable researchers to have a balanced assessment, helping them make the best decision when it comes to purchasing the equipment most suitable for their requirements. Only through reviews can researchers share their experience of using lab equipment over several years. From this, one can assess the durability of that lab equipment, as this information cannot be found in the product information on the manufacturer’s website. With unbiased reviews, one can assess the user-friendliness of lab equipment from other researchers who have already used it.

SelectScience reviews help me to evaluate which consumable or piece of equipment is most suitable for my lab’s requirements.

What is your favorite piece of lab equipment?

My favorite piece of lab equipment is the Implen Nanophotometer N60. A wide range of assays can be performed on it. It is very durable, it lasted over two years without breaking down and there is no requirement for preventive maintenance.

What would you like to achieve in your work?

I would like to integrate artificial intelligence into my lab’s research.

Phoebe shares her top 5 lab instruments

1. N60 NanoPhotometer by Implen

"No preventive maintenance required, a wide range of assays can be performed using this equipment, no breakdown for two years."

2. Eppendorf Research^® Plus Pipettes by Eppendorf

"Reproducible, reliable, lightweight, ergonomic."

3. LightCycler^® 480 Instrument II by Roche

"Able to handle a large number of users as this equipment was used as in a department research core facility."

4. T100™ Thermal Cycler by Bio-Rad

"Compact design, economical, serves its function efficiently."

5. BioClassic Class II Type A2 Series Laminar Flow Biological Safety Cabinets by GELMAN SINGAPORE

"Durable, able to function over 10 years with yearly recertification testing."

Would you like to feature in our Reviewer Spotlight? Write your review here to be in with a chance >>