| |9HIGHERReviewDECEBER, 2025AN INDIAN PHYSICIST'S JOURNEY TO A PHD IN SINGAPOREenvironment were overwhelmingly positive. He notes that the institute felt welcoming to international students and that support infrastructure was strong.One example that made a lasting impression was the access to advanced equipment for sample characterisation and microwave measurements, as well as the NTU F.A.C.T.S. (Facility for Advanced Characterisation Technology and Systems). "Such facilities enriched my experimental work and allowed collaborations across labs," Dr Manna says.His supervisor also played a pivotal role. "He encouraged me to think independently, welcomed my own ideas, and guided me with a balance of challenge and support. Discussions with professors, research fellows and peers were always insightful. That encouragement shaped my professional maturity," Dr Manna recalls.The combination of hands-on research, peer collaboration, and exposure to best practices in pedagogy deepened not only Dr Manna's technical skills, but also his ability to mentor others. Impact and ReflectionsDr Manna regards being awarded the Dean's Commendation for Research on three occasions as recognition not just for his technical work, but also for his contribution to the NIE research community.He reflects: "The most rewarding part of my PhD journey was the chance to conduct cutting-edge research in spintronics while being trained in advanced teaching methods. Those twin strands in research and pedagogy shaped me into a better researcher and a better mentor."Since graduation, Dr Manna's relocated to Germany as a Postdoctoral researcher in the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz. His current work involves supervising undergraduate and postgraduate students. "What I learned at NIE continues to guide how I mentor others, how I design lab-based modules, and how I encourage students to think independently."Looking Ahead: Future AspirationsWhat's next for Dr Manna?"My immediate goal is to build further on spintronics research especially its interface with artificial-intelligence hardware. Long term, I intend to return to India as a professor. There, I hope to nurture students in interdisciplinary research, and combine my technical work with a strong emphasis on teaching innovation. I want to contribute to India's growing research ecosystem," he shares.He also plans to maintain close ties with NIE and Singapore by forging collaborative projects, and perhaps inviting NIE researchers to co-supervise, or participating in exchange programmes.A Recommendation for Aspiring Doctoral CandidatesDr Manna offers this advice to Indians considering doctoral study abroad:"If your ambition is to grow as both a researcher and teacher, NIE offers a rare blend of world-class research facilities and pedagogy training. Come with an open mind, embrace new culture, and engage actively with your supervisor and peers. Take advantage of campus infrastructure, not just labs, but recreation, wellness and collaborative opportunities to maintain healthy balance and encourage innovation."Dr Manna's learning experience in Singapore is clear: NIE nurtured him, empowered him, and prepared him for the dual role of researcher-educator.The National Institute of Education (NIE) is an autonomous institute under Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. It is ranked among the world's top 12 universities and Asia's top three education institutions in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings. Dr Sourabh Manna
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