Nicholas TanA*STAR Graduate Scholarship
Nicholas Tan, A*STAR Graduate Scholarship Recipient
In the quest to unlock boundaries in the manufacturing sector with the help of science
As an avid craftsman, Mr Nicholas Tan, a 4th year PhD candidate at the National University of Singapore chose to pursue his passion in riveting world of microstructures in mechanical engineering. Microstructures are heavily integrated into many devices
that are familiar to us all, from the sensors in automated lighting systems to the flashlight in our phones. These structures that enhance the ability of our devices passively can easily be taken for granted. As technology becomes smaller and
smarter, the ability to design and fabricate these little complex and intricate structures becomes ever more necessary to advance society. Finding solutions to the challenges faced at the forefront of technology and bringing hope to unlocking
the boundaries of manufacturing gives Nicholas immense satisfaction knowing that he may one day impact the lives of others too.
As A*STAR Graduate Scholarship (AGS) Scholar, he continues to push for Singapore’s technological development as a thriving manufacturing industry, leveraging A*STAR’s affiliations and multiple opportunities to travel to international conferences
to meet with highly distinguished researchers and to experience interesting exchanges with like-minded researchers. These experiences allowed him to forge new friendships as well as to grow personally and professionally.
Advice to upcoming scholars
Starting a PhD can be tough, Nicholas suggests to those considering it to get to know the research landscape, network, and take guidance from mentors. Keen interest in research will make the application process a lot easier, especially the interviews.
Quick tip for mechanical engineers, your talents are widely appreciated in research and development due to the versatility in critical thinking, creativity, and application. This allows for mechanical engineering talents to be deployed in a wide variety of fields such as manufacturing, materials, robotics and automation, where acquired hardware knowledge and programming skills honed during your PhD would become invaluable assets for many upcoming industrial applications.
Inspiration outside work life
Nicholas is not all work and no play, going on challenging hikes and creating beautiful pieces of art occupies his free time when he is not in the lab.
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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.
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.
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.
Can a non-Singaporean apply for the scholarship?
Yes. However, you will be required to apply for Singapore Citizenship if you are awarded the scholarship. Non-Singaporean males are required to serve National Service prior to the commencement of undergraduate studies.
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.