Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are attracting outstanding talent to work on projects to strengthen Singapore's defence science and technology research and development (R&D) capabilities.
Both parties formalised their intent by inking a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the DSO National Laboratories today.
The MOU governs the setting up of the Temasek Research Fellowship and the Nanyang-DSO Post-Doctoral Fellowship schemes.
Researchers offered the three-year Temasek Research Fellowship – extendable for up to another three years – will undertake defence-related research at the university. They will be appointed principal investigators at the Temasek Laboratories@NTU and other NTU research centres to lead and undertake defence science and technology research.
The Nanyang-DSO Post-Doctoral Fellowship is an exclusive agreement between MINDEF and NTU. Researchers offered the two-year Nanyang-DSO Post-Doctoral Fellowship will undertake defence-related research at NTU in close collaboration with DSO National Laboratories.
Dr Su Guaning, President of NTU, who together with Permanent Secretary (Defence Development) Dr Tan Kim Siew, witnessed the signing, says: "NTU and MINDEF have been strategic partners in defence science and technology R&D for many years."
"This is yet another milestone in our collaboration with MINDEF. It signifies the trust and confidence established over the years in NTU's R&D capabilities, the calibre of our scientists and researchers, and their ability to deliver effective solutions to enhance the defence and security of Singapore."
Dr Su adds: "Some of the Nanyang-DSO post-doctoral fellows may eventually join our faculty ranks, contributing to the multi-disciplinary research landscape at NTU and further strengthening research collaboration between the two organisations. The outcome of their work will boost the capacity of Singapore to harness science and technology for a multiplier effect in defence capabilities."
The Temasek Research Fellowship and Nanyang-DSO Post-Doctoral Fellowship aim to attract outstanding young researchers with doctorates to undertake R&D that will boost Singapore's defence capabilities. They will focus on research areas such as Advanced Materials and Energetic Materials. Other scientific and technological research areas that will have a significant impact on Singapore's defence and security will also be considered.
The MOU was signed by MINDEF's Chief Defence Scientist and Chief Research and Technology Officer, Mr Quek Tong Boon, and NTU Provost, Professor Bertil Andersson.