Mentorship programme to build biomedical sciences

Dr Brenner at the Sydney Brenner Symposium in 2015, which was jointly organised by NUS

Singapore-based undergraduates keen on research in the biomedical sciences will now have a chance to be mentored by leading scientists all over the world, thanks to a new mentorship programme established by NUS. Named the Brenner Fellowship in honour of the late Dr Sydney Brenner, Nobel laureate and trailblazer in the field of molecular biology, the programme will see students travel overseas to work with their mentors in their laboratories.

Dr Brenner was also an NUS faculty member who generously shared his rich experience and wise advice with the University, said NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye.

“Dr Brenner was instrumental in shaping Singapore’s research and development landscape and placing Singapore on the global map for biomedical sciences. During his lifetime, he inspired a whole generation of scientists who continue to build on his outstanding work. NUS is honoured to establish the Brenner Fellowship as a tribute to his legacy, and to carry forward his ideals of nurturing great scientific talents for the betterment of society,” he added.

The fellowship was announced by Mr Heng Swee Keat, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Finance and Chairman of the Singapore National Research Foundation, at the inaugural NUHS Innovation Summit where he was Guest-of-Honour.

“To translate research breakthroughs into cost-effective interventions, a strong talent pool is essential. Research is only as good as the clinician scientists and researchers we have,” said Mr Heng. He added that the Brenner Fellowship will aid promising young biomedical science researchers in pursuit of their research ideas to learn from the best and to build a network of relationships around the world.

See press release.