Dr Marilyne PhilibertA*STAR Research Attachment Programme

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Dr Marilyne Philibert, A*STAR Research Attachment Programme Recipient

A PhD experience that opened a world of possibilities

Marilyne Philibert, a scientist at A*STAR Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (A*STAR IMRE), comes from a small village in France. She chose to join the A*STAR Research Attachment Programme (ARAP) to gain international exposure and pursue her dream to develop advanced materials and innovative technologies.

Please introduce yourself
I am from a small village called Varennes sous Dun, in the region of Burgundy  in France, where there’re more cows than humans!

I wanted to challenge myself by pursuing a PhD in a different country. After completing my master’s degree in textile engineering in France, I joined the University of Manchester to pursue my PhD.

In 2017, I was pleased to discover more about the A*STAR Research Attachment Programme (ARAP) and decided to travel to Singapore to join A*STAR IMRE, where I spent two years doing research in the structural health monitoring of composite structures using piezoelectric transducers. As I enjoyed my previous stay in Singapore and my PhD project, I came back to A*STAR and joined A*STAR IMRE in October 2021 as a scientist.

The ARAP award was a good opportunity to work for both a university reputable for its research and high-quality education, and a public sector R&D agency with numerous collaborations with renowned industrial partners.

How did your mentor help you in your ARAP journey?
My supervisor, Dr Yao Kui, has offered valuable support in sharing his expertise and providing career advice. My colleagues in A*STAR IMRE were always very helpful by offering precious guidance and insights.

Would you like to share some tips for interested applicants for ARAP?
The ARAP award is an exciting opportunity to broaden one’s horizon with international experience. I recommend attending conferences as it is very important to build a good network of experts in the field. The PhD journey is full of ups and downs (both professionally or personally), so seeking advice from supervisors, colleagues or other fellow students is essential.

What has your experience in Singapore been like?
I had an amazing experience in Singapore as the city is a melting pot of diverse cultures and very charming with many green spaces. During my attachment in Singapore, I visited so many countries that I would have never expected to see.

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FAQs /scholarships/home/faqs

Do I need to have prior research experience?

While having prior research experience helps to boost your application, it is not mandatory. A*STAR will make a holistic assessment of each application and take into consideration other factors such your achievements in science/maths related competitions and CCAs.  

My examination results are not available yet. Can I apply for the scholarship?

Yes, you may apply with your school preliminary results. Please send in your final results as soon as you receive it. 

Do I need to secure a place at an overseas university before applying for the scholarship?

No, you may apply for the scholarship even if you have not secured admission to any overseas university yet.

What qualities does A*STAR look for in a scholar?

In addition to academic excellence and a passion in science, we are looking for people who are committed to a research or research-related career in Singapore.  A*STAR is making a significant investment in each scholar and the aim is for every scholar to be part of Singapore's Research, Innovation and Enterprise ecosystem. 

Do I need to serve a bond?

For overseas scholarships students, will have to serve a bond from 2-6 years.

What are the allowances like for the A*STAR scholarships?

During the PhD studies, A*STAR scholars receive competitive monthly allowance besides full sponsorship of the tuition fees.  Please refer to the coverage section of the respective scholarship pages for further details.