"Tech transfer only works when people trust each other."

How Eugene Wee’s work across A*STAR shaped a career in innovation, startup building and global tech transfer.

Eugene Wee’s career has been shaped by his commitment to bridging science and society. At A*STAR, he played a key role in policy, organisational development and deep tech commercialisation, including the rebranding of Accelerate Technologies and the founding of A*StartCentral. Today, as part of ST Engineering’s Group Technology Office, he’s on the buy side of innovation, helping turn emerging research into real-world value.

Eugene has worked across public and private sectors, moving between consultancy, government, and industry. At every step, he’s focused on how to unlock value – not just from new technologies, but from the people and partnerships behind them.

In this conversation, he reflects on the lessons from his time at A*STAR, how his work evolved with the agency’s mission, and why he continues to champion tech transfer in a global context.

We asked Eugene to look back on the moments, decisions and insights that shaped his journey. Here is what he shared.

What comes to mind when you hear A*STAR?
Three things: talent, technology, and transfer. A*STAR has always been about identifying top talent and enabling them to develop technologies that matter. But the third part — transfer — is critical. That’s where I spent most of my time, making sure research doesn’t stay in the lab, but moves into companies, products and impact.
How did your journey with A*STAR begin?
I was a consultant at the time, working on market-readiness for emerging technologies. One of our clients was A*STAR. I reviewed Institute for Infocomm Research (I²R)’s digital portfolio and gave honest feedback — some of it critical. They didn’t just take it well, they hired me. That started my journey evaluating and shaping the tech landscape within the agency.
You worked across multiple divisions at A*STAR — what drove those moves?
Curiosity, and a desire to contribute where I could add value. I started in planning and policy, then moved to organisational development, helping shape a sense of 1-A*STAR identity. Later, I joined A*ccelerate (then Exploit Technologies Pte Ltd or ETPL), where I worked on rebranding, startup incubation, and building A*StartCentral. It was all about alignment — between research, enterprise and national goals.
Tell us more about the A*StartCentral chapter.
We knew that spinning off startups was one of the most direct ways to translate technology. A*StartCentral gave founders a place to build, connect and grow. My contribution may be best remembered for the coffee machine, but really it was about building an ecosystem — with founders, investors and researchers all in one space. That matters.
What’s your role now at ST Engineering?
I’m part of the Group Technology Office, focused on tech acquisition. So now I’m on the other side — receiving technologies from universities, research institutes and startups. My A*STAR experience helps a lot. I understand how hard it is to transfer technology out, so I try to make the process smoother on the receiving end.
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Do you still work with A*STAR now?
Absolutely. We collaborate often, especially when scouting technologies with commercial potential. I’ve found that some of the best opportunities come from the A*STAR ecosystem. And because of existing relationships, it’s much easier to engage meaningfully and move quickly.
What advice would you give to someone considering A*STAR as a career?
Embrace the breadth. A*STAR is not just about research. It’s policy, public service, research management, enterprise, and beyond. If you’re open, you’ll gain a wide-angle view of how science becomes strategy, and how technology creates real change.
What influences your thinking today?
People, books and stories. I read widely — from George Yeo’s reflections to cultural memoirs. Podcasts like The Economist and FT News are part of my daily routine. I also learn from my daughter. She chooses the music during our morning commute, then we switch to current affairs. It’s our small ritual — and it keeps both of us curious.
What’s one area of technology you’re excited about right now?
 Fusion. It’s still early, but I believe it could change the energy landscape in our lifetime. I’m excited to see how the global research community — A*STAR included — can contribute to that future.
How can people reach you?
LinkedIn is best. I’m always open to connecting with others who are passionate about technology and impact.