A*STAR has announced the Singapore-Southeast Asia Fellowship (S-SEAF) 2026, a new initiative designed to foster deeper research collaboration across the ASEAN region. The programme, administered by Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research, opens applications for PhD-holding researchers seeking to conduct collaborative work either in Singapore or at institutions in other Southeast Asian countries.
The fellowship supports research stints of up to two years and covers salary support, airfare, and related expenses. It targets both inbound researchers from ASEAN member states and outbound Singapore-based researchers, creating a two-way flow of talent and ideas.
Background on A*STAR and Regional Research Priorities
A*STAR serves as Singapore’s lead public-sector agency for science, technology and research. It oversees a network of research institutes and works closely with local universities including the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University. The new fellowship aligns with Singapore’s broader strategy to position itself as a hub for regional scientific cooperation.
Priority research themes for S-SEAF 2026 include infectious diseases, manufacturing, trade and connectivity, and other areas critical to ASEAN’s shared challenges. These themes reflect ongoing regional needs in public health, economic integration and sustainable development.
Eligibility and Application Details
Inbound applicants must be citizens of ASEAN member states, excluding Singapore permanent residents. Outbound applicants must hold Singapore citizenship. All candidates require a PhD in a STEM-related field and a strong research track record. Applications close on 1 August 2026 at 7:00 PM Singapore time.
Interested researchers can submit applications through the official A*STAR portal. Host institutions in Singapore include A*STAR research institutes, while outbound placements occur at recognised institutions across ASEAN countries.
Benefits and Support Provided
The fellowship offers comprehensive support to enable focused research. Recipients receive salary coverage for the duration of their stint, round-trip airfare, and additional allowances for research-related costs. This structure allows researchers to concentrate fully on their projects without financial distractions.
By facilitating extended stays of up to two years, the programme encourages meaningful knowledge exchange and the formation of lasting research partnerships between Singapore and its ASEAN neighbours.
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Impact on Singapore’s Higher Education Landscape
The S-SEAF initiative complements existing efforts by Singapore’s universities to internationalise their research portfolios. Institutions such as NUS and NTU regularly host international scholars, and the new fellowship provides an additional structured pathway for ASEAN talent to engage with these campuses.
Enhanced mobility supports joint publications, co-supervised postgraduate students and collaborative grant applications. These outcomes strengthen the research output and global rankings of Singapore’s higher education sector.
Opportunities for ASEAN Researchers
For researchers based in ASEAN countries, S-SEAF offers access to Singapore’s world-class research infrastructure and expertise. Participants can work on projects aligned with national priorities while building networks that extend beyond the fellowship period.
Outbound Singapore researchers benefit equally by gaining on-the-ground insights into research environments across the region, fostering reciprocal understanding and future collaborations.
Application Process and Timeline
Prospective applicants should prepare a detailed research proposal, letters of support from both home and host institutions, and evidence of their academic achievements. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or additional discussions with potential host supervisors.
The deadline of 1 August 2026 allows sufficient time for preparation. Early submissions are encouraged to accommodate any required revisions or additional documentation.
Future Outlook for Regional Research Collaboration
The launch of S-SEAF 2026 signals Singapore’s continued commitment to ASEAN-wide scientific advancement. As regional challenges such as climate resilience, digital transformation and pandemic preparedness grow in complexity, cross-border research partnerships become increasingly vital.
Successive rounds of the fellowship are expected to expand in scope and participant numbers, further embedding Singapore as a central node in Southeast Asia’s research ecosystem.
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How Institutions and Researchers Can Engage
Universities and research institutes across ASEAN are encouraged to promote the fellowship among eligible staff and students. Potential host supervisors in Singapore can signal their interest in mentoring incoming fellows through the A*STAR application system.
Early engagement with the programme helps align institutional research strategies with regional priorities and positions organisations for future collaborative opportunities.