NRCT and NRF Singapore Discuss Expanding Research and Innovation Collaboration at STS forum 2025 – The 22nd Annual Meeting
5 October 2025
NRCT and NRF Singapore Discuss Expanding Research and Innovation Collaboration at STS forum 2025 – The 22nd Annual Meeting
On 5 October 2025, the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, held a meeting with the National Research Foundation (NRF), Singapore, during the STS forum 2025 – The 22nd Annual Meeting at the Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC Kyoto), Kyoto, Japan. The NRCT delegation was led by Ms. Sirinporn Deawtrakool, Deputy Executive Director of NRCT, on behalf of Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Executive Director of NRCT. The delegation also included Professor Dr. Sanong Ekgasit, Associate Professor Dr. Dusit Athinuwat, Academic Advisory Committee, Ms. Kwansiri Chonyuth, Director of the Group of International Affairs, and NRCT officials. The NRF Singapore delegation was led by Mr. John Lim, CEO, together with Ms. Kathryn Zhang, Deputy Director of International Relations, and Dr. Shirleen Soh, Head of Academic Research.
Ms. Sirinporn Deawtrakool, Deputy Executive Director of the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), shared that the meeting provided a valuable opportunity to exchange views on strengthening international research collaboration. Both sides recognized the importance of working together in priority areas of mutual interest, including health and ageing society, environmental sustainability, digital technology, and AI — areas that align closely with Thailand’s science, research, and innovation policies. During the discussion, NRCT proposed developing a bilateral cooperation framework between NRCT and NRF to further enhance collaboration. Initial steps may include researcher exchange programs and the establishment of joint research networks in areas of shared strength, serving as a foundation for expanding research and innovation partnerships in the future.
Mr. John Lim highlighted NRF’s role as the Singapore Government’s lead agency in setting national research directions and allocating research funding. NRF’s work spans four key domains:
- Manufacturing, Trade & Connectivity
- Human Health & Potential
- Smart Nation & Digital Economy
- Urban Solutions & Sustainability
He also introduced key initiatives such as the Singapore Academies’ South-East Asia Fellowship Program, which provides opportunities for ASEAN researchers — particularly postdoctoral researchers — to conduct research in Singapore for up to two years. The program serves as an important platform for building networks among emerging researchers in the region.
The discussion marked an important step forward in strengthening research and innovation collaboration between Thailand and Singapore. It reflects a shared commitment to advancing knowledge, technology, and innovation in practical ways for the mutual benefit of both countries in the years ahead.
