Creating academia pathways for scholars

22 Jul 2009

The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with NUS and NTU on 22 July 2009 to offer A*STAR PhD scholars the opportunity to pursue a career in academia through the A*STAR- Academia Pathways. Scholars can choose from three schemes which include the Joint Appointment Scheme (Research and Academic Dual Career Track), Secondment Scheme (Academic Track) and the Adjunct Appointment Scheme.

On the collaboration, Chairman of A*STAR Mr Lim Chuan Poh said: "PhD talent is critical to Singapore's transformation into a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy. Being a small country, we only have a small pool of core local talent."

He added: "For this reason, A*STAR had developed multiple pathways to provide them with the best opportunities to realise their full potential. We hope that the flow of talent between A*STAR and the universities will strengthen the partnership that we have with the universities and will enhance collaborations in the future."

NUS President Prof Tan Chorh Chuan noted: "A*STAR scholars bring with them fresh perspectives for research and education, which will enrich the educational experience of NUS students and strengthen our talent pool for cutting-edge research. Likewise, we are confident that NUS' invigorating intellectual and learning environment and culture will bring out the best in these talented young researchers."

Currently, there are some 30 A*STAR scholars eligible for the A*STAR- Academia Pathways. The three schemes under the A*STAR-Academia Pathways are:

• Joint Appointment Scheme (Research and Academic Dual Career Track) allows scholars to conduct research at A*STAR's research institutes as well as contribute to teaching, supervision and academic service commitments at the University. Scholars under this scheme may be considered for tenure by the University while continuing their research at A*STAR.
• Secondment Scheme (Academic Track) offers the opportunity to scholars to be seconded full-time to the University after having served the first two years of their service commitment with A*STAR. Scholars will be appointed as University faculty on the University tenure track.
• Adjunct Appointment Scheme provides scholars a platform to contribute to University faculty departments via PhD supervision and other avenues.