News: Celebrating the Remarkable Journey of Professor Lim Kah Leong: A Leader, Mentor, and Trailblazer

By Sufian Bin Suderman

A well-known and admired figure within the LKCMedicine community, Professor Lim Kah Leong, who served as the School’s Vice Dean (Research) since 2019, now assumes the role of Associate Vice President (Biomedical & Life Sciences) at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. We reflect on the profound impact Prof Lim has made during his tenure as Vice Dean (Research), characterised by exceptional leadership, collaboration, and growth that have defined his remarkable journey.

Beyond being a distinguished academic, Prof Lim is a cherished friend and colleague. Recognised for fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, Prof Lim's integral role in these aspects has indelibly left a mark at LKCMedicine and beyond. Under his leadership, the research programme at LKCMedicine not only thrived but reached new heights with initiatives such as the Academy of Clinician Scientists and Innovators (ACSI), The Dementia Research Centre (Singapore), the Office of Innovation and Enterprise (OIE) and the Centre for Biomedical Informatics. Prof Lim's organisational prowess was also exemplified in the successful execution of the 17th Biennial Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Society for Neurochemistry (APSN), underscoring his commitment to global collaboration.

Professor Joseph Sung (Dean, LKCMedicine) presents Professor Lim Kah Leong with a parting gift.

Prof Lim's influence extends beyond the lab, as seen in the formal establishment of Women in Science@LKCMedicine and the LKCMedicine Early Researcher Network (LEARN), a platform dedicated to the talent development of young researchers.

A key aspect of Prof Lim's legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to developing partnerships, particularly with the National Healthcare Group. His adept leadership during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, not only ensured the continuity of research while navigating administrative hurdles, but also further strengthened LKCMedicine's position in clinical research.

A farewell session was held for Professor Lim Kah Leong on 27 Nov 2023.

As the LKCMedicine community bid farewell to Prof Lim, there is a collective reflection on the leadership, collaboration, and growth he has inspired within the academic community. On 27 November 2023, faculty and staff gathered to express its profound thanks and gratitude to Prof Lim for his contributions, wishing him continued success in his new role at NTU.

On 1 January 2024, LKCMedicine gave a warm welcome to Associate Professor Sanjay Haresh Chotirmall as Vice Dean (Research). As clinician scientist, Assoc Prof Chotirmall has achieved numerous milestones. His role as Assistant Dean (Faculty Affairs), beginning in September 2021, greatly enhanced faculty engagement. He effectively bridged the connection between faculty members and the School's management, offering valuable guidance on academic matters and professional development.

On 1 April 2023, he transitioned into the role of Assistant Dean (Research), working closely with Prof Lim and senior leadership to strengthen LKCMedicine's research strategy. His dedication has been instrumental in facilitating research excellence among faculty members and students, fostering collaborative partnerships with local and international institutions.

In his new role as Vice Dean (Research), A/P Chotirmall will spearhead the strategic development and execution of LKCMedicine's research strategy. His visionary leadership will not only elevate LKCMedicine's research endeavours but will also contribute to the broader mission of NTU. He will play a pivotal role in driving innovation, creating impactful research synergies, and realising the ambitious goals of both LKCMedicine and NTU.