Yes

Usually around four years. The maximum period of candidature is five years. In practice, four years is the minimum time required, and doing a PhD in less than that is possible only in exceptional circumstances.

You can, but we generally do not encourage it.

No. Publications are generally not required to apply for PhD enrollment. However, it will be a plus if you have one, since it demonstrates some form of aptitude for research.

We are not computer scientists or mathematicians (and we don't pretend to be), but most of our research is technical to a certain extent. We generally require (at least beginner-level) technical skills such as coding in Python or experience with computational design and simulations. We do not recommend applying to our group if you have no computational skills and zero technical experience - i.e., we do not work on purely conceptual, theoretical or management research since this is not our expertise. There are other amazing research groups at NUS that may match your profile better.

We expect our researchers to:

• Take ownership of their work, demonstrating enthusiasm and passion for their chosen topic and field.

• Show initiative and proactivity in various aspects of research, including identifying knowledge gaps, generating novel ideas, and staying current with relevant conferences and publications.

• Continuously enhance their transferable skills, keep abreast of developments in their specific field and related domains, and actively seek ways to contribute to and advance knowledge.

• Demonstrate flexibility and collaborative spirit by regularly reassessing and adjusting research plans, and maintain an open mindset towards feedback and constructive criticism.

• Develop effective time management and project planning skills to meet research milestones and deadlines.

• Most importantly, maintain high standards of research integrity and ethics throughout their work.

You will be working with an advisor, not for or under an advisor. We are a small and friendly group, and have a relatively flat structure with little hierarchy and formalities (we also don't intend to grow too big). While there will be guidance, we do not micromanage and generally expect some level of independence from researchers. We also believe in the 80-20 rule - that researchers are encouraged to spend 80% of their time on core projects and 20% on innovative ideas that advance their personal interests.

A crucial aspect of doctoral studies is developing the ability to identify research gaps and establish a research direction. In most cases, barring specific constraints like funding or sponsorship requirements, doctoral candidates collaborate closely with their supervisors to determine their research topic. This process typically involves multiple iterations and allows for considerable autonomy.

Our research group welcomes a diverse range of topics and doctoral projects. The key criteria are that the proposed research should be logical, address a clear gap in the field, align with our group's focus, and match the candidate's background, strengths, abilities, and interests.

For visiting researchers, particularly those already enrolled in doctoral programs elsewhere, we ensure that their work here complements their ongoing studies at their home institution. We strive to maintain consistency with their primary doctoral research while avoiding significant deviations.

Generally yes. We are happy to endorse candidates who are seeking external funding as long as they are a match. We are also able to fund postdocs depending on project needs. Please reach out or check our webpage for openings.

Generally yes, if the proposed research aligns with our work.