A*STAR International Fellowship 2026 , Singapore (Fully Funded Postdoctoral Scholarship)
The A*STAR International Fellowship (AIF) is a prestigious fully funded postdoctoral scholarship offered by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore. This program supports outstanding early-career researchers to undertake up to two years of overseas postdoctoral training at leading universities, research institutes, or deep-tech startups. The fellowship aims to nurture global research talent who will return to Singapore and contribute to the nation’s research, innovation, and enterprise ecosystem.
Degree Level
- Postdoctoral Research Training (After PhD)
Available Subjects
The fellowship is open to a wide range of research disciplines including:
- Biomedical Research
- Antimicrobial Resistance
- Bioinformatics
- Food Science & Processing
- Human Potential & Clinical Sciences
- Infectious Diseases
- MedTech
- Precision & Preventive Health
- Synthetic Biology
- Therapeutics
- Science & Engineering Research
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
- Quantum Technologies
- Semiconductors
- Smart & Sustainable Manufacturing
- Sustainable Energy & Chemicals
- Supply Chain Optimization
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive financial package for up to two years, including:
- Monthly overseas living allowance
- Monthly sustenance allowance (with CPF contribution)
- Annual return airfare
- Settling-in allowance
- Computer allowance
- Conference & research allowance
- Annual personal insurance
- Full support during overseas postdoctoral placement
Service Commitment:
- Upon completion, scholars must return to Singapore and serve three (3) years at A*STAR research institutes or related organizations.
Eligible Nationalities
- Singapore Citizens
- Singapore Permanent Residents
- Exceptional foreign applicants may be considered, but must obtain Singapore citizenship before fellowship commencement.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a PhD obtained within the last 4 years
- No existing bond with any institution
- Strong academic and research track record
Track-Specific Requirements
AIF – Research Track
- Excellent publication record
- Secured or applying for a postdoctoral position at a top overseas institution
AIF – Innovation Track
- Strong interest in innovation & entrepreneurship
- Preferably good publications and industry exposure
Mid-Term Applicants
- Must be Singaporean
- Already enrolled in an overseas postdoctoral position
- Current supervisor must be one of the referees
Application Procedure
Follow these steps to apply:
- Secure a postdoctoral placement at an approved overseas university, lab, or deep-tech startup.
- Prepare required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- PhD certificate
- Research proposal
- CV with publication list
- Two academic referees
- Submit online application via:
https://sms-applicant-app.a-star.edu.sg/
Application Timeline
Cycle Application Period Interviews Results
Cycle 1
- 1 Jan – 1 Apr (Application Period)
- Apr – May (Interviews)
- Mid-June (Results)
- 1 Jul – 1 Nov (Application Period)
- Oct – Nov (Interviews)
- December (Results)
Successful candidates will join Vista Development Programme, A*STAR’s leadership and research career mentoring series.
Why Choose A*STAR Fellowship?
- Train in world-class global research environments
- Access to top universities and deep-tech startups
- Strong industry and innovation exposure
- Guaranteed research position in Singapore after return
- Competitive funding with full financial security
