Alysa Tan Named to SG100 Women in Tech 2025 for Pioneering Responsible AI and Mentorship

From Research to Community Impact: CCDS PhD Researcher Alysa Tan Joins SG100 Women in Tech 2025

CCDS PhD researcher Alysa Tan has been named among the Singapore 100 Women in Tech (SG100WIT) for 2025. This list, organised by the Singapore Computer Society together with SG Women in Tech and IMDA, highlights women making major contributions to Singapore’s technology sector and inspires future generations.

Alysa sees this recognition as an important milestone. “I’m honoured to be included in the SG100 Women in Tech list alongside accomplished leaders, technologists, scientists, and professors. Being early in my career compared to others on the list, I feel truly grateful and humbled. I also want to thank my mentors, professors, and collaborators who have supported me along the way.”

Focus on Responsible and Trustworthy AI

Alysa’s research at CCDS centres on responsible and trustworthy artificial intelligence. She specialises in federated and continual learning, which allow AI systems to adapt while preserving privacy. These approaches are especially critical in sensitive fields like healthcare and finance, where trust is essential.

Her survey on Personalised Federated Learning is ranked in the top 1% of papers in computer science and engineering, offering the global research community a clearer foundation to build upon. Alysa believes the next significant challenge in AI will be governance — ensuring systems are both technically reliable and socially accountable. Issues like fairness, transparency, and cross-border data use will require collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders.

Bridging Theory and Real-World Applications

Before starting her PhD, Alysa worked in AI and data science across manufacturing, finance, insurance, and supply chain sectors. These roles taught her how to connect theory with practical deployment, manage sensitive data responsibly, and prioritise impact. These lessons now guide her research approach at CCDS.

Community Engagement and Mentorship

Outside academic research, Alysa actively supports the AI community through mentoring, peer reviewing, and event organisation. A standout moment was mentoring a team of Secondary 1–2 students at a national AI hackathon. Despite being the youngest group, they advanced to the finals competing against older participants. This experience reinforced Alysa’s belief in empowering young talent to explore innovative ideas early.

Personal Interests and Advice

Alysa draws inspiration from art, culture, and travel. Visiting museums, attending musicals, and learning new languages help her broaden her perspective and recharge. Reflecting on her own path, she advises students and early-career professionals: “Don’t worry about following a fixed path, and don’t be afraid to forge your own. Careers don’t have to be linear, and some of the most valuable lessons come from trying different things.”

Alysa’s inclusion on the SG100 Women in Tech list celebrates her achievements and the values she represents: responsibility, curiosity, and dedication to mentorship.