MOE START Scheme (Applied Research Fellowship) - Food, Chemical and Biotechnology

European Commission; Singapore; On-site; SGD 20,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Singapore offers the Applied Research Fellowship for doctoral candidates to pursue advanced research abroad with mentorship opportunities. This one-year program supports Singaporeans aiming for academic careers in diverse fields, including sustainable food systems and biotechnology, with several benefits and training programs.

Benefits

Monthly stipend

Overseas maintenance allowance

Return economy airfare

Conference and fieldwork grants

Overseas medical insurance

Qualifications

• Recent or upcoming doctoral graduates in supported areas such as food, chemical, and biotechnology.
• Excellent academic record and high motivation for research.
• Interest in an academic career.

Responsibilities

• Engagement in advanced training or research with potential academic mentorship.
• Participation in faculty development programs.

Skills

Research motivation

Analytical skills

Technical expertise

Education

Doctorate in related fields

Job description

Organisation/Company: SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (SIT)

Research Field: Agricultural sciences, Biological sciences, Chemistry

Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2), First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country: Singapore

Application Deadline: 25 Jun 2025 - 00:00 (UTC)

Type of Contract: Other

Job Status: Full-time

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? No

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

SIT's mission is centered on nurturing industry-ready graduates with deep technical expertise and transferable skills to address future challenges. We collaborate with industry in education and research, providing a talented workforce and engaging in collaborative research endeavors.

Our university’s applied learning pedagogy integrates work and study, embedding authentic learning experiences within real-world settings. Through strategic industry partnerships, students bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring they graduate with relevant skills and competence.

In research, SIT faculty aims to bridge knowledge creation and utilization by working closely with industry on translational research and innovation to address significant industry challenges and positively impact businesses.

The Singapore Teaching and Academic Research Talent (START) Scheme, co-funded by MOE and SIT, supports Singaporeans interested in pursuing an academic career at SIT.

The Applied Research Fellowship offers doctoral candidates nearing or having completed their studies an opportunity to engage in advanced training or research abroad for one year, with academic mentorship and potential consideration for an Assistant Professorship upon completion.

Eligibility and Selection

• Singapore citizen
• Recent or upcoming doctoral graduates in supported areas
• Excellent academic record and high motivation for research
• Accepted or applying for postdoctoral training at a leading overseas university
• Interest in an academic career

Fellowship Benefits

• Monthly stipend
• Overseas maintenance allowance
• Return economy airfare
• Conference and fieldwork grants
• Overseas medical insurance

Fellows will be mentored by SIT faculty and participate in faculty development programs. The fellowship lasts for one year, with possible extension to two years.

Service Commitment

One year of service for each year of sponsorship.

Application Process

• Applications accepted year-round; those before 15 Jan 2026 considered for 2026 intake
• Interviews conducted throughout the year for shortlisted candidates
• Final interviews from mid-March to end-April 2026
• Awards finalized by July 2026

Supported Areas for START

Food, Chemical, and Biotechnology

• Sustainable and Functional Food: Sustainable food systems, circular economy, alternative proteins, upcycled ingredients, AI & automation in food manufacturing, smart sensors, digital twins, AI-driven food quality control, blockchain
• Biotechnology: Microbial host screening and engineering, microbial physiology, high-throughput screening, bioprospecting for microbial hosts, enzymes, metabolites
• (Bio)pharmaceuticals: Processing science, separations, purifications, formulation, process modeling, optimization, control, and innovation in pharmaceuticals manufacturing
• Process Control: Process modeling, control, optimization, data-driven modeling, machine learning, advanced process control, digital twins, real-time monitoring, PAT, process intensification, sustainability