iCORE Story
A*STAR Integrated Central Operations & Research Enablers (iCORE) represents an evolution of A*STAR’s shared research support ecosystem. Our journey began with the establishment of the Biopolis Shared Facilities (BSF) in 2003. These early shared facilities were created to provide common scientific services to researchers across the Biopolis community. Over time, as research activities expanded and the need for more coordinated support grew, these functions were streamlined into the Research Support Centre (RSC), which played a crucial role in coordinating laboratory services, scientific platforms and operational support across multiple Research Institutes (RIs).
In April 2026, RSC was rebranded to become A*STAR Integrated Central Operations & Research Enablers (iCORE), reflecting not only a change in name but a significant broadening of remit, scale and operating model. This transformation comes in anticipation of BMRC's future strategic plans.
The rebranding to iCORE marks a pivotal moment in this transition. It signifies a more comprehensive and integrated approach to supporting scientific research, bringing together central operational capabilities, research infrastructure and shared technology platforms. Under this expanded framework, iCORE unifies both front‑end and back‑end support functions from scientific technology platforms and equipment lifecycle management to laboratory operations, consumables logistics and ecosystem coordination.
This evolution builds upon the solid foundations laid by the BSF and RSC, scaling up to meet the demands of our modern, interconnected research campus.
Our dedicated iCORE team is a diverse group of professionals whose expertise, commitment and passion form the backbone of everything we do. Our team members contribute a unique blend of scientific knowledge, operational experience, finance, IT and procurement expertise with a customer‑focused mindset that enables iCORE to function as a trusted partner to the research community.
Across our iCORE Platforms, Laboratory Operations, and the Office of iCORE, we work as an integrated team collaboratively to ensure laboratories function smoothly, scientific services are delivered to the highest standards and researchers receive coordinated end‑to‑end support.
At iCORE, our staff are our greatest strength, providing the deep expertise, professionalism and care that empower researchers to innovate with confidence. From technical specialists who train and support users on well-maintained advanced instrumentation, to laboratory operations teams who manage essential back‑end functions and administrative staff who streamline access and user experience. The iCORE team drives the reliability and quality that the community can depend on.
iCORE Platforms
Our iCORE Platforms experts are enablers of scientific research. Their deep understanding of experimental design, sample preparation, and complex data analysis and presentation enable multidisciplinary research across a broad range of applications whilst ensuring high standards of research integrity and ethics. Their commitment to continuous improvement and keeping pace with rapid technological develoments help ensure that iCORE Platforms remains cutting-edge and aligned to the evolving needs of Singapore’s biomedical ecosystem.
Our iCORE Platforms include:
iCORE Laboratory Operations
Glassware Operations (GW)
The Glassware Operations team is committed to ensuring the cleanliness, sterility and safety of laboratory glassware and materials to support accurate and reliable scientific research. We uphold rigorous protocols for cleaning and sterilising laboratory glassware and safely managing biohazard waste.
Our services include thorough pre-rinsing, washing, deionized water rinsing, and drying of glassware, as well as proper packaging, autoclaving and disposal of biohazard waste.
Through these efforts, we play a critical role in supporting laboratory operations, ensuring safety and smooth operations.
Logistics Operations (Logs-Ops)
The Logistics Operations team is a vital hub for managing and streamlining the supply of research consumables, ensuring researchers have timely access to essential research supplies. By consolidating orders from multiple vendors and optimising procurement processes, Logs-Ops reduces costs and ensures an uninterrupted supply of critical resources.
Specializing in inventory management, order fulfilment and logistics with a focus on delivering user convenience, Logs-Ops offers services like self-collection lockers, delivery and pick-up options, enabling researchers to access supplies quickly and flexibly.
Office of iCORE
Strategic Initiatives (Strat-I)
The Strategic Initiatives team leverages digitalisation to ensure visibility, accessibility, and ecosystem-wide sharing of high-value scientific equipment.
By integrating digital solutions and data analytics, the team facilitates equipment usage tracking and charging and enables data-driven decision-making for effective asset lifecycle management.
Our initiatives include:
Enhanced visibility of A*STAR’s research infrastructure through the A*STAR Scientific Equipment Finder (A*SEF).
Easy access and utilisation tracking for via the Stratocore PPMS system.
Data analytics and reporting through the Scientific Equipment Dashboard to support sustainable asset management decisions with operational control and oversight.
Business Enablement & Engagement (BEE)
The Business Enablement & Engagement team fosters sustainable growth by connecting potential customers to advanced scientific services and providing ready access to research consumables – supporting both our users and service providers.
Our mission is to provide seamless practical solutions, supporting the sale of research consumables, iCORE Platforms' services and marketing initiatives.
Key functions include:
Facilitating iCORE Platforms engagements: Acting as the essential link between users and platforms.
Managing iCORE Communications: Addressing inquiries, resolving business-related issues and providing marketing support to ensure seamless operations and promote productive partnerships.
Driving Marketing Initiatives: Developing impactful campaigns, strategies and events to boost user engagement and awareness.
Supply Management (SM)
The Supply Management team serves as a central hub for planning, procuring and managing research consumables and services across A*STAR. By consolidating demand and streamlining logistics, the team ensures efficient resource utilisation and uninterrupted access to essential research supplies.
Key responsibilities include:
Demand Aggregation: Consolidating requests to leverage bulk purchasing power.
Procurement: Sourcing high-quality products and services at competitive prices.
Intelligent Planning and Stocking: Maintaining optimal inventory levels to reduce delays and wastage.
Supply Chain Buffering: Building safeguards to ensure continuous availability of critical resources.
Through strategic partnerships and efficient operations, the team supports the research ecosystem with reliable and cost-effective solutions.
A*STAR celebrates International Women's Day
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