What is A*STAR
ASTAR is Singapore’s lead public‑sector research and development agency. It was established in 1991 (originally as the National Science and Technology Board) and re‑constituted as ASTAR in 2002. Its mission is to advance science and develop innovative technology to further economic growth and improve lives. As a statutory board under the government’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, A*STAR bridges the gap between academia and industry by spearheading mission‑oriented research across multiple domains.
What A*STAR Does — Research, Innovation, Industry Collaboration
A*STAR’s research institutes conduct R&D spanning from biomedical sciences to physical sciences and engineering. Its work includes fundamental scientific discovery, development of new technologies, and translation of research into practical applications that benefit both industry and society. Key focus areas cover healthcare, urban living, sustainability, advanced manufacturing, materials and microelectronics, among others. The agency supports translational research — from basic science through to patented inventions and ready-to-use technologies.
Infrastructure: Research Hubs & Institutes
Most of ASTAR’s research entities are located in two main hubs: a biomedical‑focused campus and a science/engineering‑oriented campus. Through its two research councils — one for biomedical sciences and one for science & engineering — ASTAR organises and oversees a network of research institutes. The agency also supports collaboration with universities, hospitals, corporate labs, and international partners.
Nurturing Talent, Startups, and Innovation Ecosystem
Beyond research, ASTAR invests heavily in human capital: it nurtures scientific talent and future leaders through scholarships, fellowships, and collaborative programmes with universities. It also drives technology transfer and supports deep‑tech startups via an open‑innovation and incubation platform. Through these efforts, ASTAR helps seed new enterprises, support local industry growth, and ensure that scientific advances translate into economic and societal impact.
Impact — Economic Growth, Jobs, Societal Benefits
ASTAR plays a core role in Singapore’s strategy to become a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy. Its research and industry collaborations contribute to economic growth, create jobs, and support key sectors such as biomedical sciences, manufacturing, digital economy, sustainability and more. Moreover, ASTAR aims to deliver societal benefits through improved healthcare, urban solutions, sustainability, and quality of life — both within Singapore and globally.
Vision and Values
A*STAR positions itself as a global leader in science, technology and open innovation. Its guiding principle is to turn scientific excellence into innovations that benefit the economy and society. The agency emphasises collaboration — between research institutes, academia, industry, government, and international partners — to maximise impact and foster sustainable scientific, technological and social development.
