This call invites Indian and Singaporean scientists and researchers to submit joint research proposals under the Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore. The focus is on fostering collaboration in Digital Health/Medical Technologies and Green Hydrogen.

Key Dates and Submission

The deadline for submitting proposals is 16 May 2025. Indian applicants must submit through www.onlinedst.gov.in by 5:00 PM India time. Singaporean applicants should apply via the iGrants platform (igrants-app.a-star.edu.sg) by 11:59 PM Singapore Standard Time.

A common application form, prescribed by DST and A*STAR, must be used. Ensure identical applications are submitted by both the Indian and Singaporean counterparts. Applications received after the deadline or only in one country will not be considered.

Endorsement from the research office (or equivalent) at higher education or research institutions is mandatory. This ensures organizational support for the proposed research plan.

Eligibility Criteria

For Indian applicants, the Project Lead and Co-Investigators must be scientists/faculty members in regular positions at universities, academic institutes, or national R&D labs. They should not be retiring or leaving their institution during the project duration. Furthermore, Indian scientists involved in more than two ongoing DST-supported projects (International Group) expected to continue beyond March 31, 2025, are ineligible.

Singaporean applicants must reside in Singapore and be full-time researchers at a Singapore public sector research organization. Each project proposal must include one Principal Investigator (PI) from both India and Singapore, with the option of adding a Co-Investigator (Co-I). The PIs are responsible for the technical and administrative coordination, as well as scientific and financial reporting of their projects.

• Indian Project Lead and Co-Is: Regular faculty members

• Singaporean Applicants: Full-time researchers in Singapore public sector

• PIs: Responsible for coordination and reporting

Funding Details and Eligible Costs

Successful projects will be funded by DST in India and A*STAR in Singapore, each adhering to their respective funding criteria. The maximum project duration is three years, subject to annual evaluations in both countries. Funding supports manpower costs, consumables, minor accessories, research expenses, and project-related visits.

For India-based applicants, DST funding covers round-trip economy-class airfare, medical insurance, accommodation, and living expenses for exchange visits (up to two persons per year, maximum one-month stay). A maximum of 30-40% of the budget can be allocated for consumables and accessories. Fellowship support for one JRF/SRF/RA student is also available.

Singapore-based applicants should refer to A*STAR Grants Terms & Conditions and Guidelines for fundable items. A maximum of SGD 250,000 (inclusive of 30% overheads) per joint project will be provided to the Singapore applicant over three years. Scientific and financial reporting is mandatory for continued funding.

Proposal Requirements and Evaluation

Proposals must comprehensively disclose research ideas and approaches, emphasizing a well-crafted and substantive description of the research plan. Proprietary or confidential information should be clearly indicated. Proposals must not duplicate or be substantially similar to previous submissions.

Applications will undergo peer review and be assessed by an independent advisory panel. Key evaluation criteria include conformity with the program's aims, feasibility of the methodology, capability of research leaders, appropriateness of the project plan, and the potential impact of the activities. The benefits to the scientific community and the potential for new advances in science and technology are also crucial.

DST and A*STAR may request additional information or presentations from PIs during the review process. Notification of awards will be sent to the respective Principal Investigators and Heads of Institutions. An Implementation Plan, addressing intellectual property ownership and obligations, must be submitted within three months of the award letter.

Intellectual Property and Program Monitoring

An Implementation Plan must be signed for any joint research collaboration. This plan should address ownership of intellectual properties and each party’s rights and obligations. The Plan should be submitted to DST and A*STAR by the respective researchers within three months starting from the date in the Letter of Award.

Programmes will be reviewed annually, and research teams are expected to submit annual summary reports. Presentation and public seminars may also form part of the project progress review. Arrangements relating to intellectual property rights (including copyright and patent rights) and commercialisation of such intellectual property shall be in accordance with the A*STAR Grants Terms & Conditions Clause 14.

It is required that an Implementation Plan will be signed for any joint research collaboration. In the interest of encouraging meaningful collaborations, the concerned parties are requested to engage in appropriate discussions and negotiations to determine issues such as ownership of any arising intellectual properties and each party’s rights and obligations under the collaboration.