Singapore’s national research strategy is organised around four key domains - Manufacturing, Trade and Connectivity (MTC), Human Health and Potential (HHP), Urban Solutions and Sustainability (USS), and Smart Nation and Digital Economy (SNDE).
4 Domains, Endless Possibilities
Between 2026 to 2030, a five-year roadmap is formulated to deepen the nation’s research and translation capabilities, sharpen our focus on creating value in high-impact areas, sustain long-term investments in these priority domains, and ensure our basic research capabilities and talent remain globally competitive.
In the next five years, Singapore will also launch several major initiatives – the RIE Flagships and two RIE Grand Challenges. These large national research and translational programmes will drive economic outcomes and advance our strategic priorities in key areas.
Learn more about the 4 Domains:
The MTC domain supports the development of advanced technologies that elevate Singapore’s position as a high-value manufacturing, logistics and connectivity hub. From next-generation semiconductors and aerospace systems to robotics, additive manufacturing, sustainable production and resilient supply chains, MTC research transforms deep scientific capabilities into industry-ready technologies.
Key Achievement: Engineering the Future of Aerospace
Through partnerships with industry leaders like Rolls-Royce and SIA Engineering Company, A*STAR co-developed next-generation MRO and manufacturing technologies, strengthening Singapore’s competitiveness as a trusted global node for aerospace manufacturing and innovation.
The HHP domain advances research that improves health, longevity and human potential across the human lifespan. From precision medicine and early disease detection to cell and gene therapy, digital health, epidemic preparedness and healthy ageing, HHP research translates biomedical and behavioural insights into improved health outcomes for Singapore, Asia Pacific, and the world.
Key Achievement: Advancing Early Cancer Detection
A*STAR spin-off MiRXES developed GASTROClear™, the world’s first microRNA blood test for early gastric cancer detection, transforming cutting-edge microRNA research into a breakthrough diagnostic that can help save lives.