Early Career Researcher (ECR) Overseas Exchange Fellowship

Research in Singapore with A*STAR

The Early Career Researcher (ECR) Overseas Exchange Fellowship offers international early career researchers the opportunity to undertake a structured research attachment with A*STAR, Singapore’s leading public sector R&D agency, where they will work with A*STAR researchers, gain exposure to Singapore’s research landscape and emerging technologies, and build meaningful global connections through cross-border research exchange.

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Programme Overview

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The ECR Overseas Exchange Fellowship is a two-way research exchange programme that supports collaboration between A*STAR and overseas universities and research institution.

For overseas early career researchers: Undertake a 3 to 12-month research attachment with A*STAR in Singapore, working with an A*STAR host researcher on a project aligned with your research expertise and interests.

For A*STAR researchers: Undertake a research exchange with an overseas university or research institution. For more information, contact Joyce Tay at Joyce_Tay@a-star.edu.sg.

What it fosters Cross-border research collaboration, knowledge exchange and stronger connections between A*STAR and the global research community. Institutes. Choose one from 17 A*STAR Research Institute that best aligns with your research focus.

 
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Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

  •    Completed their PhD within the past 7 years
  •    Employed by or affiliated with an overseas university or research institution
  •    Secured independent funding, such as support from a home institution, fellowship, or government funding
  •    Obtained in-principle acceptance from an A*STAR host researcher before applying

Additional religibility and selection criteria may apply.

 

Duration

The research attachment in Singapore will typically range from 3 to 12 months, depending on the research project, host researcher’s agreement, and programme requirements.

 

Coverage

Fellows will be hosted by an A*STAR researcher and will have access to relevant research facilities and support through their host team, subject to the scope of the approved research project. Applicants will be responsible for securing their own funding or external funding before applying.

 

Research Areas

A*STAR’s multidisciplinary research spans biomedical sciences, physical sciences, engineering, computing, and other key research areas.

Biomedical Research Science & Engineering Research
  •    Antimicrobial Resistance
  •    Bioinformatics
  •    Food Science, Food Processing
  •    Human Potential & Clinical Sciences
  •    Infectious Diseases
  •    MedTech
  •    Metabolic & Brain Health
  •    Precision and Preventive Health
  •    Synthetic Biology
  •    Therapeutics
  •    Automated hub operations
  •    Data, AI and Compute
  •    Quantum
  •    Real-time, Resilient & Optimised Supply Chain
  •    Semiconductors
  •    Smart and Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing
  •    Sustainable Energy and Chemicals

Visit our project listings to identify a research project or host researcher aligned to your expertise and proposed area of work.

 

How to Apply

Step1: Identify an A*STAR host researcher

Secure independent funding and identify a suitable A*STAR host researcher via the project listing.

Step 2: Obtain host acceptance

Obtain in-principle acceptance via email from the A*STAR host researcher before submitting your application.

Step 3: Prepare your application

Prepare the required documents, such as:

  •    CV
  •    Proof of funding
  •    Host researcher acceptance

Step 4: Submit your application

We welcome applications all year round. Connect with A*STAR researchers, experience Singapore’s research ecosystem and build new collaborations through an international research exchange.

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