The National Initiative for RNA Biology and its Applications (NIRBA) officially opened its new Hub at NUS on 21 July 2026, marking a significant milestone in Singapore’s efforts to strengthen its capabilities in RNA science and accelerate the translation of research into healthcare, economic and societal impact.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Mr Heng Swee Keat, Chairman of the National Research Foundation (NRF), and attended by leaders from academia, research institutions, industry and government agencies.
Launched in 2025 as a S$130 million national initiative supported by the NRF, NIRBA was established to advance Singapore’s capabilities in RNA biology and its applications. Bringing together researchers and expertise from NUS, Nanyang Technological University, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, and other partners, NIRBA aims to position Singapore at the forefront of one of the most rapidly evolving areas of modern science.
The opening of the NIRBA Hub represents the next phase of this journey. Serving as the focal point of NIRBA’s hub-and-spoke model, the Hub will unite researchers, clinicians, technology platforms and industry partners to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and accelerate innovation in RNA science.
This new development is closely aligned with the ambitions of Singapore’s Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2030 (RIE2030) plan, which seeks to strengthen the nation’s scientific base, deepen innovation capabilities, develop talent and translate research into economic and societal outcomes.
Read more about the launch on NUS News or visit us on our LinkedIn page.