The Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB) was launched on 23 January 1985, with the official opening ceremony held on 2 October 1987 at the National University of Singapore (NUS), to develop and support the biomedical R&D capabilities in Singapore. It subsequently became an autonomous research institute (RI) of the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), moving to
Biopolis in 2004.
IMCB’s original vision was to foster a vibrant research culture to enable cutting edge discoveries and nurture high-quality talent. The creation and development of IMCB has catalyzed the transformation of Singapore into an international hub for biomedical research, development & innovation by:
- fostering the biomedical research culture in Singapore
- placing Singapore onto global map of scientific excellence
- training & recruiting capable people at all levels
- facilitating the development of other research entities
Over the years, IMCB has:
- trained more than 250 PhDs
- recruited more than 800 PhDs from the international community
- published over 2,500 research papers in top international peer-reviewed journals, with a yearly citation above 8,000 since 2012
- established numerous collaborations with industrial, clinical & academic partners, both locally and internationally.
Today, IMCB has established itself as a premier molecular and cell biology institute. IMCB was awarded the Nikkei Prize 2000 for Technological Innovation in recognition of its growth into a leading international research centre and its collaboration with industry and research institutes worldwide. Sixteen IMCB Principal Investigators have received National Science and Technology Awards and Medals.