Building a Lasting Foundation for Research Collaboration in Asia
A Singapore-based non-profit connecting researchers, universities, industry, and society to drive long-term scientific discovery and real-world impact.
SARA – Science Alliance for Research in Asia
1. Bridging Japan and Singapore: Connecting Japan’s depth
in basic science with Singapore’s role as an international
gateway to accelerate Asia’s leadership in healthy
longevity research.
2. Sustained Collaboration: Moving beyond one-off events to
build lasting frameworks that connect funding, researchers, and
industry across borders.
3. Empowering Young Scientists: Fostering early-career
exchanges, fellowships, and open research networks across Asia.
4. Independent, Transparent Funding: Supporting investigator-
led, high-impact research through diverse and balanced
funding models.
Our Vision for Scientific Advancement
Our Commitment
Dr. Sayaka Yasuda is a scientist specializing in molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate human health, stress response, and longevity. Her scientific background spans advanced live-cell imaging, DIC microscopy, intracellular signaling pathways, and the study of how cellular structures behave under physiological and pathological conditions.
With research experience across Japan and Singapore, Dr. Yasuda has worked extensively on imaging-based approaches to understand how cells adapt, communicate, and respond to external stressors. Her interests lie in connecting fundamental cell biology to real-world applications in healthy aging, preventive health, and molecular diagnostics.
As the Founder and Scientific Lead of SARA – Science Alliance for Research in Asia, she is dedicated to building a collaborative, cross-border scientific ecosystem that empowers young researchers and strengthens regional scientific excellence. Through SARA, Dr. Yasuda connects universities, research institutions, and industry partners across Japan, Singapore, and ASEAN to accelerate Asia-led discoveries in cell biology, translational research, and longevity science.
Scientific & Partnership Updates
Stay Informed
Follow our journey as we make strides in research partnerships and community engagement across Asia. We provide regular updates on our initiatives, events, and milestones.
Research
Innovative Projects
At SARA, our research initiatives focus on advancing cell biology, healthy longevity, and translational science across Asia.
We collaborate with leading universities, research centres, and industry partners to explore:
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Cellular mechanisms of stress, aging, and resilience
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Advanced imaging and microscopy technologies
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Gut–brain and metabolic health pathways
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Early-stage research with potential for real-world applications
Our goal is to empower emerging researchers and accelerate Asia-led scientific discovery.
Events
Engaging Sessions
SARA hosts a range of events designed to bring together scientists, scholars, early-career researchers, and industry innovators.
Our events include:
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Cross-border scientific seminars (Japan–Singapore)
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Workshops on cell biology, imaging, and longevity research
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Public engagement sessions and science communication programmes
Each session is crafted to strengthen collaboration and spark new ideas across Asia's research ecosystem.
Partnerships
Collaborative Efforts
Partnerships are at the heart of SARA’s mission.
We work with:
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Universities in Singapore, Japan, and ASEAN
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Research laboratories in cell biology, aging, and molecular science
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Industry partners in nutrition, health technologies, and biomedical innovation
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Foundations and organisations supporting early-career scientists
Together, we build a neutral, sustainable platform that supports joint research, mobility programmes, and cross-border knowledge exchange.
Resources
Tools & Knowledge for Researchers
SARA provides curated resources to support the scientific community, including:
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Research insights and white papers on Asian healthy longevity
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Training materials from imaging, microscopy, and cell biology workshops
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Opportunities for short-term fellowships in Japan laboratories
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Access to upcoming SARA publications and pilot grant announcements
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Guides for industry–academic collaboration in Asia
Our resources are designed to help researchers grow, collaborate, and access new opportunities.