Agency for Science, Technology, and Research: Unveiling Breakthroughs Through Collaboration and Innovation

Introduction

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (ASTAR) stands as a beacon of innovation, propelling Singapore to the forefront of scientific discovery and technological prowess. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, ASTAR fosters a vibrant ecosystem where researchers, scientists, and industry partners collaborate to unlock the boundless potential of science, enriching lives and transforming industries worldwide.

A*STAR: Driving R&D and Economic Growth

A*STAR's journey began in 1991 with a clear mandate: to accelerate Singapore's transition into a knowledge-based economy. Since its inception, the agency has played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, contributing significantly to the nation's economic growth and global competitiveness.

According to the World Economic Forum's "Global Competitiveness Report 2021-2022," Singapore ranks among the top 10 economies globally for its innovation capabilities, a testament to A*STAR's unwavering commitment to research and development (R&D).

Research Priorities: Addressing Global Challenges

A*STAR's research agenda is meticulously aligned with Singapore's strategic national priorities and the urgent challenges facing humanity. The agency's four strategic research domains encompass:

• Health and Biomedical Sciences: Developing transformative technologies to improve human health and well-being, such as advanced diagnostics, personalized therapeutics, and regenerative medicine.

• Urban Solutions and Sustainability: Creating innovative solutions to address urban challenges, including sustainable urban infrastructure, resource management, and clean energy technologies.

• Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering: Driving innovation in advanced manufacturing technologies, materials science, and aerospace engineering, enhancing productivity and efficiency across industries.

• Infocomm and Media: Advancing digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and quantum computing, to empower businesses and enhance societal well-being.

  

A*STAR: A Catalyst for Collaboration and Knowledge Transfer

ASTAR's collaborative approach has fostered a vibrant ecosystem of partnerships between academia, industry, and government agencies. Through strategic alliances, joint ventures, and incubation programs, ASTAR facilitates the transfer of knowledge and expertise, accelerating the commercialization of research outcomes.

• In 2021, A*STAR's research institutes collaborated on over 1,000 projects with local and international companies, generating over US$1 billion in research contract revenue.

• Partnership with Leading Universities: A*STAR collaborates with world-renowned universities to establish joint laboratories and research centers, attracting top-tier scientists and researchers to Singapore.

• Joint Research Projects: A*STAR's industry partners engage in joint research projects that address real-world challenges, ensuring that research outcomes are directly applicable to the development of innovative products and services.

A*STAR Research Institutes: Centers of Scientific Excellence

At the heart of A*STAR's innovation ecosystem lie its specialized research institutes, each dedicated to a specific area of scientific inquiry. These institutes serve as hubs of research excellence, bringing together multidisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers to tackle complex challenges and develop groundbreaking technologies.

• Biomedical Research Institute (BIRI): BIRI focuses on biomedical sciences, including genomics, proteomics, and translational medicine, to develop novel therapies and diagnostics for major diseases.

• Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE): IMRE conducts cutting-edge research in advanced materials, such as nanoelectronics, polymers, and biomaterials, to create new materials for a wide range of applications.

• Institute of High-Performance Computing (IHPC): IHPC is a leading center for high-performance computing, developing advanced algorithms and computational tools for scientific research, engineering, and industry.

• National Cybersecurity Center Singapore (NCSC): NCSC is Singapore's national agency for cybersecurity research, developing innovative technologies and solutions to protect critical infrastructure and ensure digital resilience.

A*STAR Academy: Nurturing Future Innovators

ASTAR recognizes that a thriving innovation ecosystem requires a continuous pipeline of talented and passionate researchers and scientists. The ASTAR Academy offers a comprehensive range of educational programs, from undergraduate research opportunities to postgraduate scholarships, to inspire and nurture the next generation of scientific leaders.

• Youth Science Academies: A*STAR engages with students at a young age through its Youth Science Academies, fostering their interest in science and technology and inspiring them to pursue careers in these fields.

• Ph.D. Programs: A*STAR offers a wide range of Ph.D. programs in collaboration with leading universities, providing students with the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research under the guidance of renowned supervisors.

• Postdoctoral Fellowships: A*STAR's postdoctoral fellowships attract top-tier researchers from around the world to conduct groundbreaking research in Singapore's vibrant R&D ecosystem.

A*STAR Innovation Labs: Translating Research into Impact

To bridge the gap between research and commercialization, A*STAR established Innovation Labs, which provide a platform for researchers and entrepreneurs to collaborate and translate research outcomes into viable products and businesses.

• Start-up Incubation: A*STAR's Innovation Labs provide incubation support to deep-tech start-ups, offering access to mentorship, funding, and research infrastructure to accelerate their growth.

• Technology Transfer: Innovation Labs facilitate the commercialization of A*STAR's research outcomes, working closely with industry partners to develop prototypes, secure funding, and establish strategic alliances.

A*STAR's Impact: Enhancing Lives, Transforming Industries

A*STAR's research and innovation efforts have a profound impact on Singapore and the global community, delivering tangible benefits in various areas:

• Healthier Lives: A*STAR's research in biomedical sciences has led to the development of innovative diagnostics and therapies for diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and infectious diseases, improving the health and well-being of millions worldwide.

• Sustainable Cities: A*STAR's solutions for urban challenges have contributed to Singapore's transformation into a sustainable and livable city, with technologies for water management, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

• Economic Growth: A*STAR's collaborations with industry have accelerated the development of new technologies and products, creating economic growth and competitiveness for Singapore's industries.

• Global Recognition: A*STAR's scientists and researchers have gained international recognition for their groundbreaking work, with numerous awards and accolades, including Nobel Prizes and IEEE Fellowships.

Conclusion

The Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (ASTAR) stands as a beacon of innovation, driving Singapore's transformation into a knowledge-based economy and propelling the nation to the forefront of scientific discovery. Through its unwavering commitment to research excellence, collaborative partnerships, and knowledge transfer, ASTAR continues to play a pivotal role in addressing global challenges, enhancing lives, and transforming industries worldwide. As A*STAR embarks on its next chapter, it is poised to make even greater contributions to the advancement of science, technology, and human progress.

Tables

Table 1: A*STAR's Strategic Research Domains and Key Areas of Focus

Table 2: A*STAR Research Institutes and Their Focus Areas

Table 3: A*STAR Academy's Educational Programs

Table 4: A*STAR Innovation Labs' Support Services