Joshua Lim has always been drawn to the edges of what is possible.
After his A levels, he developed a keen interest in quantum computing, an emerging field with the potential to solve complex problems far more efficiently than today’s computers.
When he enrolled at Imperial College London for a master’s degree in theoretical physics, his curiosity took him to another frontier: fusion energy. For his academic projects, Joshua spent time researching how this renewable energy could one day be made viable to power cities.
| More on this topic Detecting and keeping bio agents and contraband from our shores His future career in robotics will contribute towards a safer Singapore |
But as his studies progressed, Joshua began to question how such long-horizon technologies could translate into real-world impact. “Fusion is an exciting field, but we are many years away from realising a fusion reactor,” he notes.
Unsure of how to apply his knowledge to make a tangible difference, he found a new direction at an HTX (Home Team Science and Technology Agency) scholarship talk held at his university campus.
“The speaker was sharing about his work in the Robotics, Automation and Unmanned Systems Centre of Expertise,” says Joshua. “What struck me was that HTX really let him pursue his interests, such as developing robots for safety purposes and deployment in the field. He said he had been able to harness his knowledge to benefit the Home Team departments.”
That convinced Joshua to apply for the mid-term HTX Scholarship to complete his masters. Now a scientist at HTX’s Disruptive Technologies Office, the 25-year-old has rekindled his passion for quantum computing – and he has found ways to apply this to help others.
“I want the work I do to be able to help just one more person and keep them safe.”
– Joshua Lim, recipient of the HTX Scholarship
Quantum computing uses quantum bits, or qubits, which can explore many possible answers at the same time instead of one by one like conventional computers. This allows it to solve complex problems much faster than today’s supercomputers.
For instance, quantum computing has the potential to help fight crime like credit card fraud.
“There are millions of credit card transactions each day,” says Joshua. “We are developing an algorithm that can detect abnormal or fraudulent transactions, which can run on everyday hardware like a laptop instead of a supercomputer.”
Joshua aims to apply the same algorithm to other areas such as cybersecurity, where it can detect incoming attacks, or in security cameras where it can study suspicious activities.
The Disruptive Technologies Office also drives scientific development in fields such as biometrics, digital and information forensics, as well as command and control, to boost the Home Team’s capabilities.
Working in the public sector has proven to be more dynamic than he expected. “People have the misconception that the Government has very rigid guidelines. But apart from a necessary amount of administrative work, I’ve been given a lot of freedom,” says Joshua. “Even with my first research project, I was given the independence to determine how to elevate and expand on the project goals while staying aligned with HTX’s mission.”
Joshua has also been encouraged by HTX to attend graduate summer schools and professional development courses. This opportunity to learn and grow continuously is vital as technology advances relentlessly. “That convinced me of how much HTX values the skill development of every staff member,” he says.
“My director recently told me that our team should not look at future solutions for present problems, but future solutions for future problems,” adds Joshua. “That changed the way I look at my work. How else can I apply what we are developing to preempt these problems?”
And while he initially thought that his coding-intensive job would get lonely, Joshua was pleasantly surprised by HTX’s welcoming and convivial atmosphere suited for new joiners like himself. “People were quick to take me around and show me the ropes,” he says.
At the end of the day, Joshua hopes to contribute to public safety in a tangible way. He adds: “I want the work I do to be able to help just one more person and keep them safe.”
| Join the HTX team HTX is looking for talented individuals with a strong interest and aptitude for advanced technology like robotics and AI to future-proof Singapore’s safety and security. Bright minds are required to help develop science and technology solutions to augment the Home Team’s capabilities in enhancing public safety. Outstanding students are invited to apply for the HTX Scholarship, a full-ride scholarship for STEM disciplines. |
This article is brought to you by the Home Team Science and Technology Agency.