The Society of Cosmetic Scientists Singapore (SCSS) organised its first technical talk on 29 April 2010 at the Singapore Management University School of Economics & Social Sciences. This technical talk highlighted Singapore’s quest to grow its economy through A*STAR, the Agency for Science, Technology and Research.
This is Singapore’s lead government agency dedicated to fostering world-class scientific research and talent for a vibrant knowledge-based economy. Dr Magali Bonnier is the head of one of the agency’s research entities, the Institute of Chemical and Engineering Sciences (ICES), and she focused on how her research team can help in the advancement of specialty chemicals by “bridging the gap” between science and application. With all its capabilities and competencies, Dr Bonnier explained that ICES can provide a range of services to the chemical industry including the cosmetic and personal care sector. These include collaborative research which aims to develop new product and/or technology with IP. Also, contract research which includes complex analytical services, feasibility studies, mechanism understanding, and trouble shooting. Dr Bonnier also highlighted that they support industrial attachments for student trainees. There were 58 participants at the session with the majority coming from the academy. Overall, the session was well received. There are three main fields of research within the ICES organisation, namely sustainable fuels and chemicals, pharmaceutical industries and specialty chemicals. The corresponding research teams are challenged to develop products and technologies based on global trends.
