Singapore-Southeast Asia Fellowship (S-SEAF) 2026
About this scholarship
The Singapore-Southeast Asia Fellowship (S-SEAF) is an A*STAR research fellowship for PhD holders in STEM-related fields to undertake collaborative research stints in Singapore or Southeast Asia for up to 2 years.
Singapore-Southeast Asia Fellowship (S-SEAF) is a research mobility and collaboration programme run by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) in Singapore. It is designed to strengthen research links between Singapore and Southeast Asia through talent mobility, joint research, and knowledge exchange.
The fellowship primarily supports postdoctoral or PhD-holder researchers in STEM and related areas. It offers two broad pathways: an inbound pathway for eligible researchers from ASEAN countries to carry out research at a host institution in Singapore, and an outbound pathway for eligible Singapore-based researchers to undertake research at a host institution in Southeast Asia. Research stints can last for up to 2 years.
Based on referenced postings, S-SEAF provides salary support, a monthly living allowance of S$2,000, and one return economy-class airfare between the fellow’s country of residence and the host institution’s country. Priority research areas can include infectious diseases and other themes aligned with Singapore’s research and innovation priorities, such as manufacturing, trade and connectivity, human health and potential, urban solutions and sustainability, and smart nation or digital economy.
Applicants are expected to hold a PhD in a STEM discipline, be fluent in written and spoken English, and work with a proposed host institution to co-develop a research proposal. Institutional endorsement is typically required, and applicants may need referees and supporting documentation as part of the application.
S-SEAF is best suited to researchers seeking a structured fellowship to build regional partnerships and advance collaborative work in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Applicants should check the current call guidance from A*STAR or the relevant host institution for pathway-specific nationality rules, host arrangements, and application procedures.
Eligibility
Who can apply for this scholarship
Applicants must hold a PhD degree in a STEM discipline and be fluent in written and spoken English. Inbound applicants must be citizens of ASEAN countries; referenced postings indicate exclusions affecting Singapore permanent residents. Outbound applicants must be Singapore Citizens or Singapore permanent residents, with additional restrictions noted for some Singapore permanent residents who are nationals of ASEAN countries. Applicants are also expected to be employed by a Singapore institution for the full duration of the fellowship where required by the pathway, and must secure support from a proposed host institution.
Requirements
Documents typically needed to apply
Language requirements
Fluent in written and spoken English
Where you can use this
Open positions accepting Singapore-Southeast Asia Fellowship (S-SEAF).
