As industries worldwide seek greater performance and energy efficiency, Gallium Nitride technology has become one of the most promising advances in the semiconductor sector. Known for its ability to operate at higher voltages, frequencies, and temperatures, Gallium Nitride (GaN) powers next-generation communications, electric vehicles, and sustainable energy systems.

In Singapore, the push for GaN innovation is driven by dedicated research leaders who translate science into real-world applications. Among them is Professor Ng Geok Ing, Executive Director of the National Semiconductor Translation and Innovation Centre (NSTIC (GaN)), who has been recognised with the 2025 President’s Technology Award (PTA) for his outstanding contributions to research and innovation.

Recognising a Visionary Leader in Science and Innovation

The President’s Science and Technology Awards (PSTA) represent Singapore’s highest national honours for excellence in research, innovation, and technological advancement. Presented by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the University Cultural Centre, the 2025 awards recognised eight distinguished leaders and innovators for their outstanding contributions to Singapore’s scientific and technological progress.

Professor Ng’s recognition under the President’s Technology Award underscores his sustained efforts in advancing Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in Singapore. His leadership has been pivotal in strengthening the nation’s semiconductor ecosystem and establishing Singapore as a key centre for GaN innovation in the Asia-Pacific region.

Building a Strong Foundation for GaN Research and Development

Under Professor Ng’s leadership, NSTIC (GaN) has grown into a vital platform for semiconductor advancement. Established in 2023 through a partnership between A*STAR, DSO National Laboratories, and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), NSTIC focuses on advancing Gallium Nitride technologies for future communications, radar systems, and power electronics.

Professor Ng’s work has been instrumental in:

• Developing national R&D capabilities in GaN device design and fabrication
  
  
• Encouraging collaboration between government, academia, and industry to accelerate innovation
  
  
• Nurturing local talent through training, internships, and research opportunities
  
  
• Strengthening Singapore’s manufacturing base to support prototype development and pilot-scale production
  

These initiatives have helped ensure that Gallium Nitride technology in Singapore continues to grow as a strategic area of strength for the nation’s semiconductor industry.

Why This Recognition Matters

Gallium Nitride technology is a critical enabler of Singapore’s long-term innovation strategy. Its applications span industries such as 5G/6G communications, satellite communications, and advanced instrumentation, aligning closely with Singapore’s national goals of digital transformation and sustainability.

By recognising Professor Ng’s achievements, the PSTA underscores the importance of leadership in driving national R&D priorities. His contributions demonstrate how Singapore’s investment in semiconductor research continues to yield tangible benefits for both the economy and society.

The award also highlights the collaborative nature of Singapore’s innovation ecosystem. Progress in compound semiconductors is made possible through partnerships that unite research institutions, public agencies, and private enterprises. Professor Ng’s work at NSTIC exemplifies this collective approach to building technological resilience and global competitiveness.

Shaping the Future Through Collaboration and Talent Development

Beyond research excellence, Professor Ng has long championed the cultivation of scientific talent in Singapore. Under his guidance, NSTIC (GaN) provides hands-on training and research opportunities for students, engineers, and early-career scientists who aspire to contribute to the semiconductor field.

This focus on capability building ensures a continuous pipeline of skilled professionals who can sustain the nation’s progress in semiconductor innovation in Singapore. It also reinforces the idea that technological advancement depends not only on infrastructure and funding but on people with vision and dedication.

A Collective Achievement for Singapore’s Research Community

Professor Ng’s award is also a recognition of the broader network of partners who contribute to Singapore’s leadership in science and technology. Institutions such as A*STAR, NTU, and DSO National Laboratories have collaborated closely to drive GaN innovation forward. Together, they have built a foundation that strengthens the nation’s position in high-value semiconductor research.

This achievement reflects Singapore’s commitment to fostering an environment where innovation thrives through collaboration and shared purpose. It shows how focused investment in advanced materials research can generate long-term value for industry, academia, and society.

Conclusion

NSTIC (GaN) congratulates Professor Ng Geok Ing on receiving the 2025 President’s Technology Award, a well-deserved recognition of his leadership and dedication to advancing Gallium Nitride technology in Singapore.

His achievements serve as an inspiration to the research community and reaffirm Singapore’s commitment to excellence in science and innovation. Through continued collaboration, NSTIC (GaN) will build on this momentum to strengthen national capabilities in GaN and beyond.

FAQ

1. What is the President’s Technology Award?
   The President’s Technology Award (PTA) is part of the President’s Science and Technology Awards (PSTA), Singapore’s highest national honours for research, innovation, and technological development. It recognises individuals or teams whose work has created meaningful impact for the nation.
   
   
2. Who presents the PSTA?
   The awards are presented by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the University Cultural Centre, with evaluation by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and expert panels across research and industry.
   
   
3. How does Gallium Nitride technology contribute to Singapore’s innovation goals?
   Gallium Nitride (GaN) supports faster, more efficient, and energy-saving technologies across communications, radar, and power systems. Its advancement strengthens Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem and positions the nation as a leader in next-generation electronics.
   
   
4. What is NSTIC’s role in this field?
   NSTIC (GaN) serves as Singapore’s national platform for advancing GaN technologies. Through partnerships with A*STAR, DSO National Laboratories, and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), it supports research, prototype manufacturing, and talent development to drive local innovation.
   
   
5. Where can I find more coverage about the 2025 President’s Science and Technology Awards?
   You can read more about this year’s award recipients and Professor Ng’s recognition in the following media features:

• CNA

• The Straits Times

• National Research Foundation (NRF) Singapore

• Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

• Temasek Laboratories, NTU

• School of EEE, NTU

• A*STAR – Agency for Science, Technology and Research