An Indian Physicist's Journey to a PhD in Singapore

How a young academic traded the lecture hall for a world-class research lab and found new ways to inspire the next generation of scientists.

When Dr Sourabh Manna launched his PhD journey at the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NIE NTU, Singapore), he brought with him a clear purpose: to become not just a teacher, but a researcher capable of guiding students beyond textbook knowledge.

“After completing my M.Sc. in India, I joined an engineering college in Kolkata as an assistant professor,” Dr Manna recalls. “I enjoyed teaching, but my knowledge remained confined to lectures and textbooks. Meanwhile, I observed that colleagues involved in research could engage students in real projects. That made me realise that research doesn’t just enhance knowledge. It also inspires curiosity and enables deeper understanding. I wanted to evolve into someone who could lead that process.” That realisation became the turning point: Dr Manna resigned his position and set his sights on doctoral study.

Dr Manna’s interest in applied Physics took shape in spintronics, the study of magnetic properties of materials for computing and data-storage applications. He says, “Spintronics focuses on understanding technologies such as magnetic sensors and the hard drives we use every day. I saw enormous potential to contribute technically and scientifically, while still retaining my passion for pedagogy.”

Choosing NIE at NTU

When he considered options for doctoral studies, Dr Manna evaluated both research reputation and the opportunity to grow as an educator. He explains, “NIE stood out as an ideal choice because of its unique combination of state-of-the-art research facilities and strong emphasis on teaching excellence. At NIE, I had the opportunity not only to engage in cutting-edge research in the natural sciences but also to receive high-quality training in innovative teaching methods.”

Singapore’s reputation as a global education hub, combined with its efficient infrastructure and multicultural society, also appealed to Dr Manna.

He further added that this dual focus on research and pedagogy distinguished NIE from other universities and aligned perfectly with his long-term career goals.

Singapore as Home for Postgraduate Study

Relocating to Singapore felt like a natural fit.

“Singapore offered world-class education in a culturally familiar environment,” Dr Manna shares. “It is geographically close to Kolkata, yet highly advanced. The prevalence of English, and an established Indian community, helped ease the transition. Day-to-day life from transport systems to administrative formalities is very convenient. Singapore is also safe. Its orderly environment gave me confidence to focus fully on my research.”

Dr Manna acknowledges some challenges, such as the pace of urban life and adapting to local norms, but he found strong support among faculty, peers and the wider Singapore community. What he particularly enjoyed was how Singapore brings together technological innovation and social diversity in one place, and how his work at NIE connected him to multidisciplinary research across departments.

The Learning Experience at NIE

Dr Manna’s first impressions of the NIE learning environment 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 Reflections

Dr 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 Aspirations

What’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 Candidates

Dr 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.

Learn more about the graduate programmes offered by the NIE here http://ntu.sg/nie-gradprog.