International Day of Women in Science Spotlight: Dr HuiQi Yeo's Passion for Flavour and Research

11.02.2025

 

The science of flavour has always been fascinating for Dr HuiQi Yeo. She joined TUMCREATE in 2022 to work on enhancing food security in Singapore through the AquaCycle research project. 

HuiQi’s goal is to identify nutritious, palatable ingredients for food products from aquacultural sidestreams. She aims to create pleasant flavour profiles without bitter off-notes together with collaborators from the Nanyang Technological University. 

Her passion and journey into the world of food research sparked early in her academic career when she was pursuing food science and technology at the National University of Singapore.  

We sat down with HuiQi to learn more about her work and her motivation behind pursuing a career in research. 

 

Share with us what do you do at TUMCREATE? 

I work as an analytical food chemist on the AquaCycle project. My job is to identify and isolate the tasty compounds, specifically peptides, from fermented tuna waste using a combined analytical and sensory approach. Beyond the project, I also oversee the running of the lab and ensure lab activities are performed smoothly and safely together with our colleagues. 

 

What excites you most about your current research project? 

AquaCycle is a project about the valorisation of fish waste and the possibility of making something useful out of ‘waste’ is very meaningful. What’s more, I get to taste samples!  

 

 

What inspired and motivated you to get into the field of research? 

My flavour journey began with my Final Year Project during my Bachelor of Science. As a young researcher then, using fancy instruments and learning about the aromas of volatile compounds was fascinating. Despite the advancement in food processing technologies, there is still so much to discover in the vast odorant chemical space. I am still curious about new aroma compounds and enjoy exploring the space of flavours in food items a lot. 

 

What are some challenges you’ve faced in your journey from PhD to working at a research institute and how did you overcome it?  

One challenge occurred when I transitioned into the multi-disciplinary research team at TUMCREATE. During my PhD, I worked with colleagues from the same research field where we naturally spoke the same scientific language.  

It took some effort to help other team members understand what my team does and why we approach things in certain ways. However, that was also the beauty of it – sharing your discipline with others, learning about theirs and finding ways to collaborate. Having an open mind is one of the keys to communication. 

 

Any advice for young women who aspire to pursue a career in science? 

There is a place for everyone in science - career progression is driven by motivation and curiosity. Dream big and work hard for yourself. This way, no one can stop you from reaching for the stars.   

 

What do you like to do outside of work? 

I am a gym junkie and enjoy attending pilates, yoga, pump and HIIT classes to take my mind off work. As a foodie with a sweet tooth, I also love checking out new dessert menus in town!