Agency for Science, Technology and Research Researcher interviews, decoded.

Basically, if your skills match what they're looking for in terms of the job duties, they'll hire you. If they want you, you're in. The hiring process involves a lot of waiting around, more than actual interviewing.

I chatted with the Principal Investigator about my interest in their research and the specific area I'd like to focus on within their lab. They also asked about my academic background and any previous research experiences I've had.

HR contacted me 3 weeks after applying and was responsive. They asked for soft copies of diplomas, transcripts, reference letters, passport, IC, payslip, etc. (though these documents might typically be submitted later). The first interview was with research seniors and felt casual, perhaps too chatty. The compensation offered wasn't as high as similar roles in other developed countries. I followed up, and HR said I'd be updated, but I never heard back from A*Star.