Where Innovation Meets Healthcare

At Duke-NUS Medical School, innovation isn't confined to laboratory walls. From implementing life-saving devices in community spaces to groundbreaking cancer treatment discoveries, the school's initiatives are transforming healthcare across Singapore.

AIMI: Pioneering AI in Medicine

In a groundbreaking partnership with SingHealth, the school unveiled the Artificial Intelligence in Medicine Institute (AIMI) in March 2025. This initiative aims to arm healthcare professionals with the skills and resources needed to harness AI solutions in real-world scenarios. According to Professor Patrick Tan, Duke-NUS’s senior vice-dean for research, AI holds immense potential—from drug discovery to disease pattern recognition.

Leadership with Vision

Professor Tan, a Stanford-trained MD-PhD and a pivotal figure since the school's inception, will become its fourth dean starting January 1, 2026. He emphasizes, “Duke-NUS creates doctors who excel beyond clinical care, researchers who go beyond publishing, and administrators dedicated to transformative education and impactful research.

A Culture of Service and Collaboration

The ethos of service resonates throughout the institution, as echoed by Associate Professor Shiva Sarraf-Yazdi. Established in 2005 through a partnership between Duke University and the National University of Singapore, Duke-NUS has earned accolades as one of Singapore's top employers for five consecutive years, showcasing trust, diversity, and clear expectations as integral to the work environment.

A Research Powerhouse Making Real-World Impacts

Duke-NUS is known for utilizing a collaborative model that connects with Singapore’s robust healthcare ecosystem. This includes notable achievements like Professor Tan’s award-winning research in gastric cancer, where his team identified critical genetic abnormalities leading to targeted clinical trials.

Transformative Initiatives Saving Lives

A striking example of Duke-NUS's impact is their work on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Their extensive research prompted the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Singapore, proving that sometimes innovation goes beyond medications—it's about lifesaving solutions.

Empowering Education for Future Leaders

Under Professor Sarraf-Yazdi’s leadership, the school's progressive educational culture nurtures bold ideas. Initiatives like the Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship expose medical students to multiple disciplines, enhancing their clinical practice and relationships with patients.

Recognition and Lifelong Learning

At Duke-NUS, growth is a continuous journey. The institution offers flexible work arrangements and support for ongoing education, illustrated by Professor Sarraf-Yazdi’s pursuit of advanced degrees while contributing to the school. Programs like the Dean’s Excellence Awards recognize staff achievements, fostering a culture of appreciation.

A Legacy of Innovation and Purpose

With a vibrant work ethos, Professor Tan notes the school attracts dedicated professionals passionate about addressing crucial future healthcare questions. Duke-NUS Medical School is more than an educational institution; it’s a dynamic catalyst for healthcare innovation that resonates far beyond Singapore.