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PhD and Post-Doc

At A*STAR, you will be part of a vibrant and innovative team, dedicated to drive A*STAR's mission to advance science and develop innovative technology to further economic growth and improve lives. We firmly believe that people are our greatest asset.

In recognition of the diverse talents, strengths and interests of our PhD scholars, we have created multiple pathways for our scholars, providing them with opportunities to develop and chart their careers in industry, corporate R&D labs, public administration, technology enterprises, spin-off companies and academia after their first two years with us.

Our post-doctoral fellowships provide opportunities for advanced training at renowned institutions and laboratories to help you develop new scientific capabilities and conduct cutting-edge research in your field of specialisation. You'll not only learn from the best minds but also build invaluable networks with the global research community through this international experience.

The A*STAR Graduate Academy provides scholarships and fellowships to enable young aspiring scientific talent to pursue their passion in science at top global universities and prepare them for a rewarding career in R&D.

For Singaporeans/other nationals intending to take up Singapore citizenship:

A*STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) ( Application till 2021-06-29 )
The AGS (Singapore) funds up to 4 years of PhD studies in NTU, NUS, SMU (Information Systems) and SUTD. Students will have the opportunity to undertake research at their chosen A*STAR Research Institute and register candidature at NTU, NUS, SMU (Information Systems) or SUTD.

AGS (Singapore) scholars will have opportunities for an overseas attachment of up to 12 months during their PhD studies, and are eligible to apply for the AGS (Post-doctoral Fellowship) which provides support for up to 2 years of overseas post-doctoral training.

Requirements
  • Singaporeans and other nationals are welcome to apply
  • Non-Singaporeans must have completed a degree in a Singapore autonomous university
  • Satisfy criteria for and seek admission to PhD programme in an autonomous university
  • Have obtained at least a 2nd Upper Class Honours Degree or equivalent in relevant disciplines
  • Have strong interest in a research career

The above eligibility criteria are not exhaustive.
A*STAR may include additional selection criteria based on prevailing scholarship policies. These policies may be amended from time to time without notice.

Value & Benefits
Successful applicants will be given support for up to 4 years of academic pursuit. They will receive*:
  • Full tuition fees
  • Monthly sustenance allowance, inclusive of CPF contribution (where applicable)
  • Other allowances including
    • Book allowance
    • Computer allowance
    • Conference allowance
    • Thesis allowance
  • Support for up to 12 months of overseas attachment
*All rates/allowances are subject to adjustments by A*STAR from time to time.
AGS scholars are eligible for up to 2 years of post-doctoral fellowship under AGS (PDF).

Bond Duration
Singaporeans (at point of award): No service commitment

Non-Singaporeans (at the point of award): 3-year service in Singapore-based companies^ without commitment to any specific organization. The area of work should preferably be in Biomedical Sciences, Physical Sciences or Engineering.

^Singapore-based companies refer to local companies and international companies that have a base in Singapore and which is registered with the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).


Application Procedure
To apply for the AGS, please click here.

The application cycle is aligned to the university admission intakes in August or January each year, as follows.

Admission Intake

Last day for submission of online application with complete set of supporting documents

August

1 February

January

1 August of the preceding year
  • Applicants should concurrently apply for PhD admission to their intended university.
  • Please note that the choice of PhD supervisor(s), project and university of successful candidates is subject to approval by A*STAR.
  • Applicants may submit GRE scores (if available) to be included in the overall assessment of their scholarship application.

Universities/ Institutions
  • Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
  • National University of Singapore (NUS)
  • Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
  • Singapore Management University (SMU) (School of Information Systems)

Courses
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Physical Sciences & Engineering
Deadline: Closed for this cycle