Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Media
Publications
Languages
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Patents
References
Work Availability
Quote
Websites
Timeline
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Yang Fong

Yang Fong

Scientist, Entrepreneur, Higher Education
Freemans Bay,Auckland CBD

Summary

Dedicated genomics and bioinformatics expert with deep expertise in science research and development, higher education, and commercialization. Specializes in genomics, precision medicine and diagnosis, and personalized healthcare. Developed patented, award-winning products that achieved global market success. Skilled in driving innovation in nutraceuticals and nutrigenomics, with a focus on precision medicine products featuring functional ingredients. An experienced educator and mentor, committed to fostering academic growth while advancing translational research into practical healthcare solutions.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
16
16
Certification

Work History

Lecturer

NZSEC
Auckland
08.2024 - 10.2024

• Teaching and curriculum development on advanced courses in genomics, precision medicine, and research and development. Developed course materials, including lesson plans and practical lessons, for science and medical students.
• Supervised students conducting research in genomics, multi-omics, and healthcare technologies. Provided mentorship on thesis development and real-world applications of STEM knowledge.
• Supervised postgraduate students conducting research in genomics, multi-omics, and healthcare technologies. Provided mentorship on thesis development and real-world applications of STEM knowledge.
• Integrated entrepreneurship into STEM education by guiding students through the process of translating scientific discoveries into commercially viable products. Collaborated on projects focusing on health and wellness innovations.

Research and Development Director (Co-Founder)

SPEL New Zealand Limited
, New Zealand
02.2020 - 08.2024
  • Spearheaded the innovation and development of cutting-edge antimicrobial products as the Research and Development Head for Antimicrobial Solutions and Nanotechnology Sanitizers (Medical Grade)
  • Developed innovative solutions using nanotechnology to eliminate pathogens without the use of harmful chemicals, ensuring effective antimicrobial properties in line with our commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly commercialization.
  • Identified external funding sources to support research initiatives.
  • Led a multidisciplinary team in the execution of intricate research projects.
  • Kept accurate documentation of all experimental findings, which encompassed notes, drawings, and sketches.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers for materials required in R&D projects.

Director of Research and Innovation

Nanogene Company Limited (R&D, Thailand Science Park)
, Thailand
06.2021 - 10.2023
  • Headed a team of researchers and scientists focused on advancing nanotechnology, resulting in significant advancements in supplement bioavailability and drug delivery systems.
  • Forged strategic partnerships with vendors and suppliers, ensuring beneficial terms for materials or services.
  • Set strategic directions for research initiatives, fostered a culture of innovation, and oversaw the development of revolutionary medical delivery technologies.
  • Oversaw the budgeting and financial planning activities of the organization.
  • Maintained compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and procedures.
  • Developed comprehensive project plans encompassing timelines, objectives, budgets, staffing requirements, and other essential elements.

Chief Executive Officer (Co-Founder)

NanoSiam Medical Company Limited (Thailand)
, Thailand
01.2021 - 10.2023
  • Charted strategic vision and provided leadership as Chief Executive Officer of a groundbreaking medical supply startup.
  • Driving the company's growth is my main responsibility as I actively shape its unique identity and focus on commercialization, risk management, and product life-cycle.
  • Prioritized functional health supplements, medical devices, and innovative bio-circular economy initiatives that transform waste into health and wellness products.
  • Successfully established contractual agreements with numerous vendors, suppliers, and partners.
  • Participated in conferences, trade shows, and networking events on behalf of the company.
  • Implemented advanced financial models to analyze business performance trends and uncover areas of potential growth.
  • Incorporated competitive analysis into decision-making process for product development.

Innovation and Strategy Consultant

Yeh Group (Thailand)
, Thailand
03.2021 - 08.2023
  • Utilizing my specialization in biomedical textiles, I lead innovation and strategy as a consultant, fostering cutting-edge solutions where healthcare meets textile.
  • Applied comprehensive knowledge of technological advancements, market trends, and strategic vision to achieve client success in rapidly evolving industry
  • Harnesses waste from plastics and creates textile materials within the bio-circular economy theme, contributing to sustainability and innovation.
  • Worked alongside stakeholders at different levels within the company, contributing to a range of projects.
  • Maintained ongoing assessment of progress using defined metrics and communicated updates in a timely manner.
  • Provided coaching to teams on optimizing resource utilization during strategy implementation.
  • Forged connections with external collaborators, enabling the exploration of new avenues for organizational growth.

Visiting Lecturer Science Commercialization/Genomics

School of Tropical Science, Mahidol University, Thailand
, Thailand
04.2021 - 04.2023
  • Instructed, trained, and supervised postgraduate students in genomics applications for life sciences and science commercialization.
  • Implemented efficient management of laboratory processes, including next-generation sequencing, to support diverse life science applications
  • Led educational sessions on the use of Oxford Nanopore for third-generation sequencing in life science research
  • Spearheaded projects focused on the utilization of traditional medicine for treating infectious diseases while simultaneously advancing food sustainability in a bio-circular economy.
  • Transformed food waste into nutraceuticals and functional supplements for health and wellness.
  • Developed comprehensive educational resources such as lesson plans and visually appealing handouts.
  • Facilitated an environment that encouraged students to engage in open discussions, contributing to the enhancement of their critical thinking abilities.

Genomics Specialist

Massey Genome Service (NZGL, Massey University)
, New Zealand
10.2017 - 03.2021
  • Played a pivotal role in the genomics team as the Genomics Specialist for next-generation sequencing and multi-omics applications
  • Managed key responsibilities encompassing advanced research and development projects, optimization of NGS workflows, and innovation in methodologies
  • Developed the skillsets of junior technicians and postgraduate students by offering expert guidance in advanced sequencing techniques and bioinformatics tools.
  • Successfully oversaw multiple genomics projects, collaborating with diverse teams and maintaining adherence to regulatory standards.
  • Enhanced R&D capabilities and applied next-generation sequencing technologies through collaborations with external research institutions and industry partners.
  • Reviewed documents for submission or publication, ensuring accuracy.
  • Offered expert support to customers, successfully troubleshooting and resolving challenging problems.
  • Coordinated with various departments to enhance workflow efficiency.
  • Implemented specialized techniques to enhance the efficiency of customer service operations.

Genome Service Manager

Massey Genome Service (Massey University)
, New Zealand
09.2016 - 09.2017
  • Managed and oversaw complete lifecycle of Next-Generation Sequencing projects, specifically focused on genomic analysis
  • Responsibilities included securing funding, managing budgets, and overseeing project planning, execution, and quality control.
  • Maintained compliance with ISO standards, health and safety regulations while ensuring the maintenance of services
  • Managed stock and inventory, coordinated critical NGS machinery, and maintained strong relationships with higher management.
  • Successfully coordinated project collaboration at both local and international levels ensuring positive results.
  • Demonstrated ability to resolve customer issues rapidly and efficiently.
  • Effectively managed service staff to achieve customer satisfaction and maintain adherence to company policies.
  • Evaluated existing procedures with a focus on identifying possible cost-saving measures.
  • Produced comprehensive reports on service activities for executive evaluation.

Senior Sequencing Technician

Massey University
, New Zealand
04.2009 - 08.2016
  • Led and contributed to the execution of high throughput sequencing experiments as a Senior NGS Technician, resulting in the generation of valuable genomic data
  • Skilled in diverse sequencing techniques and the growth of technical capabilities for Next-Generation Sequencing
  • Demonstrated expertise in effectively managing diverse NGS platforms for successful execution and optimization of sequencing workflows.
  • Performed scheduled preventive maintenance procedures.
  • Operated specialized diagnostic tools for system fault identification.
  • Maintained records of repairs, calibrations, and tests performed on equipment.
  • Managed quality control and maintained high level of customer satisfaction.
  • Participated in training to maintain technical expertise and proficiency on applicable equipment.

Sequencing Technician

Massey University
, New Zealand
10.2006 - 03.2009
  • Demonstrated expertise in executing molecular biology experiments, placing particular emphasis on Sanger sequencing techniques as a key responsibility in my capacity as a Sanger Sequencing Technician
  • Supervised the management of quality and QC for sequencing data, addressed dataset errors and issues to optimize accuracy, while proactively advancing expertise in sequencing technology.
  • Offered guidance and demonstrations on genomics sequencing techniques to post-graduate students and technicians.
  • Maintained high level of customer satisfaction through effective management of quality control processes.
  • Attended training sessions to enhance technical expertise and maintain proficiency with applicable equipment.
  • Collaborated with co-workers and supervisors to organize repair and maintenance schedules for future projects.

Education

Doctor of Philosophy (Science/Genomics) -

Massey University
Palmerston North, New Zealand
08-2024

Professional Epidemics - Infectious Disease -

The Pennsylvania State University (Coursera)
Pennsylvania, USA
05-2024

Professional AI Application for Data Science -

IBM
New York, USA
04-2024

Professional ISO Standard IMS -

Alison (Online)
United Kingdom
01.2020

Professional Data Science -

Johns Hopkins University (Coursera)
Baltimore, Maryland, USA
07-2017

Professional R Programming -

Johns Hopkins University (Coursera)
Baltimore, Maryland, USA
05-2017

Master (Hons) Genetics -

Massey University
Palmerston North, New Zealand
01.2016

Degree Biological and Biomedical Sciences -

Victoria University of Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand
01.2006

Skills

Research and Development

Advance Laboratory Skillset

Genomics/Genetics

Multi-omics Applications

Microbiology

Antimicrobial Resistance

Environmental DNA

DNA Sequencing (Sanger, Illumina, Nanopore)

Data Mining and Advanced Data Analysis

AI and ML Data Curation

Genomic Data Interpretation

Bioinformatics Tools and Software

Precision Medicine and Personalized Healthcare

Nutrigenomics and Nutraceutical

Precision Fermentation

Functional Ingredients

Genomics in Healthcare Innovation

Laboratory Management PC1/PC2

ISO Accreditation

Health and Safety

Higher Education

STEM Educator

Pedagogical Teaching

University and Online Teaching

Teaching and Mentorship

Translational Research

Capacity Training

University Teaching

Team and Technical Leadership

Innovation Management

Business Development

Science Communicator

New Product Development

Entrepreneurship

Commercialization

Finance and Budget Management

Validation Testing

Process Improvement

Project Planning and Brand Management

Training and Team Development

Effective Communicator

Administration and Reporting

Training and Development

Managing Operations and Efficiency

Business Analysis and Reporting

Analytical Skills and Thinking

Problem-solving abilities

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Organizational Skills

Idea Development and Brainstorming

AI expert

Certification

  • Illumina Next-Generation Sequencing, Illumina. Inc, 11/10/2009
  • Illumina MiSeq System, Illumina, Inc, 05/15/2012
  • Nanopore MinION Advanced Training, Oxford Nanopore Technologies, 02/07/2018
  • Nanopore GridIon Advanced Training, Oxford Nanopore Technologies, 03/11/2021
  • ISO 13485:2016 - Quality Management Systems or Medical Devices, Alison CPD UK Accreditation, 04/10/2020
  • ISO 9001:2015 - Quality Management System (QMS), Alison CPD UK Accreditation, 04/13/2020
  • Microsoft Professional Program Data Science Certificate - Charter Member, Microsoft Corporation, 04/2017
  • AI Foundations, IBM, 05/19/2024

Media

  • Using Nanopore for Rapid Diagnosis for Tuberculosis, https://www.massey.ac.nz/about/news/tuberculosis-diagnosis-technique-wins-international-award/
  • Using Molecular Genomics Technology to Combat TB, https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/a-molecular-weapon-against-tuberculosis/
  • Global TB Burden Falling: Expert Q&A, https://www.sciencemediacentre.co.nz/2018/09/19/global-tb-burden-falling-expert-qa/
  • World TB Day: How we use genomics to combat TB, https://www.bfm.my/podcast/the-bigger-picture/health-and-living/world-tb-day-2018
  • Medical Cannabis: The Therapeutic Potential of Cannabis, https://www.thestorythailand.com/en/19/03/2021/18093/
  • Thailand Governmental Cannabis Project and Commercialization, https://www.bangkokbiznews.com/news/detail/925362
  • Thailand Cannabis Project Health and Wellness, https://mgronline.com/qol/detail/9640000020375
  • Thailand Cannabis Tissue Culture, https://hoonsmart.com/archives/172776
  • Thailand Recycling Plastic for Monk Robe Project Textile, https://watchakdaeng.com/2021/appreciate-the-development-work/
  • Forbes: Thailand Special Interview from Lab Science to Commercialization, https://forbesthailand.com/sponsored-content/nano-siam
  • Genomics Commercialization, Precision Medicine, https://www.tm.mahidol.ac.th/news/test-eng-news-event-view.php?news_id=5673

Publications

  • Streptophyte Algae and the Origin of Land Plants Revisited Using Heterogeneous Models with Three New Algal Chloroplast Genomes, 2013, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24136916/
  • Two New Fern Chloroplasts and Decelerated Evolution Linked to the Long Generation Time in Tree Ferns, 2014, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24787621/
  • First 2 Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Cases From Myanmar Treated With Bedaquiline, 2017, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28444149/
  • Association between anti-tuberculosis drug resistance-conferring mutations and treatment outcomes in Myanmar, 2017, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29192532/
  • Evaluation of the rapid molecular diagnostic test for the New Zealand Mycobacterium tuberculosis Rangipo Strain in a Clinical Setting, 2018, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30001311/
  • Microbiome Dataset from the Upper Respiratory Tract of Patients Living with HIV, HIV/TB and TB from Myanmar, 2018, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30364728/
  • Acquired Resistance to Antituberculosis Drugs, 2018, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30334732/
  • Use of Genomics to Investigate Historical Importation of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Serogroup O26 and Nontoxigenic Variants into New Zealand, 2019, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30789138/
  • Identification of Genic SSRs Provide a Perspective for Studying Environmental Adaptation in the Endemic Shrub Tetraena Mongolica, 2019, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32197402/
  • Genomic Profiling of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strains, Myanmar, 2021, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34670644/
  • High rate of reinfection and possible transmission of Mycobacterium avium complex in Northeast Thailand, 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35198722/
  • Education Administration Big Data: A Case Study of China for application in Thailand, https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3978&context=educujournal

Languages

English
Native/ Bilingual
Chinese (Mandarin)
Native/ Bilingual
Chinese (Cantonese)
Native/ Bilingual
Malay
Native/ Bilingual
Thai
Limited

Affiliations

  • Science Communicator
  • Chef and Food Critics
  • Technology Geek
  • Nature Lover

Accomplishments

  • Nanopore Best Innovation TB Diagnosis Award, 2017
  • International Invention and Innovation, ICAN Canada, 2022
    Gold Medal, GERD Supplement, Best Invention, Organizer's Choice Award
  • International Invention and Innovation, ICAN Canada, 2022
    Silver Medal, Fermented Rice Lotion, Cosmetic (Recycling Waste from Rice Manufacturing)
  • International Invention and Innovation, ICAN Canada, 2022
    Silver Medal, Special Award, Natural- based Fruit and Vegetables Wash and Sanitization

Patents

  • Rapid Diagnostic of Mycobacterium tuberculosis using Patented MDA Primers (Massey University, New Zealand)
  • Nutrix Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Health Supplement (Nanogene, Thailand).
  • Dr Maethee Anti-Aging Skin Care Lotion (Nanogene, Thailand).
  • Acklin Fruits and Vegetables Washing Solution (Nanogene, Thailand).
  • SPEL Nanotechnology Antimicrobial Solution Medical Grade Antiseptic (SPEL NZ, New Zealand).

References

References available upon request.

Work Availability

monday
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Quote

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts."
Winston Churchill

Timeline

Lecturer

NZSEC
08.2024 - 10.2024

Director of Research and Innovation

Nanogene Company Limited (R&D, Thailand Science Park)
06.2021 - 10.2023

Visiting Lecturer Science Commercialization/Genomics

School of Tropical Science, Mahidol University, Thailand
04.2021 - 04.2023

Innovation and Strategy Consultant

Yeh Group (Thailand)
03.2021 - 08.2023

Chief Executive Officer (Co-Founder)

NanoSiam Medical Company Limited (Thailand)
01.2021 - 10.2023

Research and Development Director (Co-Founder)

SPEL New Zealand Limited
02.2020 - 08.2024

Genomics Specialist

Massey Genome Service (NZGL, Massey University)
10.2017 - 03.2021

Genome Service Manager

Massey Genome Service (Massey University)
09.2016 - 09.2017

Senior Sequencing Technician

Massey University
04.2009 - 08.2016

Sequencing Technician

Massey University
10.2006 - 03.2009

Doctor of Philosophy (Science/Genomics) -

Massey University

Professional Epidemics - Infectious Disease -

The Pennsylvania State University (Coursera)

Professional AI Application for Data Science -

IBM

Professional ISO Standard IMS -

Alison (Online)

Professional Data Science -

Johns Hopkins University (Coursera)

Professional R Programming -

Johns Hopkins University (Coursera)

Master (Hons) Genetics -

Massey University

Degree Biological and Biomedical Sciences -

Victoria University of Wellington
Yang FongScientist, Entrepreneur, Higher Education