Launch of the NUSMedSci Alliance: Empowering research and transforming science

Published: 20 Jan 2025

The NUSMedSCi Alliance was launched on 25 November 2025, marking an exciting milestone in the development of the medical and health sciences research community at NUS Medicine. This new initiative aims to transform the landscape of research, bringing the clinicians, researchers, and faculty together to create a more dynamic and collaborative environment at NUS Medicine.

Driven by a bold vision to empower researchers and transform the future of medical and health sciences through groundbreaking research, the Alliance will foster an environment of support and innovation, and is committed to enhancing research capabilities and improving outcomes that will have a lasting impact on global health. The Alliance is led by Associate Professor Thai Tran, who will guide the initiative with the support of 14 Council Members. Professor Roger Foo, Vice-Dean (Research), serves as the Advisor to the Alliance, bringing his expertise and experience to help shape its future direction.

At the launch event held at the MD6 foyer, Prof Chong Yap Seng, Dean of NUS Medicine and Prof Roger Foo, Vice-Dean (Research) took centre stage to interlock two large jigsaw puzzles, symbolizing the collaborative efforts between researchers and clinicians. This meaningful moment highlighted the importance of cross-disciplinary partnerships in advancing research. Following the stage activity, the completed jigsaw puzzle board was displayed on the wall outside MD6. Attendees were invited to contribute their research interests, as well as share their hopes and dreams for the future of the research community at NUS. It was an inspiring way to engage everyone in shaping the future of research together. 

The Alliance’s mission revolves around three key pillars: Support, Nurture, and Enable:

  1. Support
    At the core of the Alliance is a strong commitment to support impactful partnerships between researchers and clinicians. By facilitating collaboration, the Alliance aims to accelerate translational research, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and clinical application to address real-world health challenges.
  2. Nurture
    The NUSMedSci Alliance is dedicated to empowering junior faculty members, providing them with the resources and opportunities needed to thrive in their research careers. Through mentorship, guidance, and capacity-building initiatives, the Alliance seeks to foster the next generation of research leaders in medical and health sciences.
  3. Enable
    The Alliance will actively work to increase networking opportunities, to connect researchers with experts across disciplines and industries. By creating new avenues for collaboration, the Alliance aims to expand research horizons and drive innovation that will ultimately enhance healthcare outcomes.

Tree-planting to symbolise the growth of the research community

In a symbolic gesture of growth and renewal, the NUSMedSci Alliance held a tree planting activity during the launch. This meaningful event served as a powerful metaphor for the Alliance’s commitment to cultivating a thriving and sustainable research community at NUS Medicine.  By encouraging a culture of support, mentorship, and collaboration, the NUSMedSci Alliance aims to build a strong and enduring ecosystem, much like a tree that grows deep roots and extends its branches outward to touch new areas of knowledge and discovery.

A collaborative future for NUS Medicine

The launch of the NUSMedSci Alliance represents a significant step forward in creating a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem for research at NUS Medicine. By providing the essential support, resources, and networks for researchers to succeed, the Alliance is set to play a pivotal role in advancing medical and health sciences research to new heights.

Stay tuned for upcoming initiatives and events that will continue to drive forward our shared mission to empower researchers and transform science! 

Video link of NUSMedSci Alliance launch:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ctgl3fn647d6tw1ntvmhz/NUSMedSci-Alliance-final.mp4?rlkey=eqtdifoi5iwtdykxo6xmj885c&dl=0

To join the WhatsApp group chat community for all research related updates, please scan the QR code below: