Top young scientists from around the world have descended upon Singapore for a week-long gathering to discuss how research can address global problems. About 500 people, will take part in the inaugural Global Young Scientists Summit @ one-north, organised by the National Research Foundation and other agencies and institutions.

At the opening ceremony today, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said that it is increasingly important for scientists from different parts of the world to collaborate, as many challenges confronting the world are global in nature. DPM Teo, who is also the chairman of the National Research Foundation noted that such an event is part of this effort.

"We want to help build a strong global research network, by helping young researchers to engage and connect with their peers as well as with eminent scientific leaders. we hope that these interactions will also pave the way for future collaborations," said DPM Teo, at the National University of Singapore's University Cultural Centre.

The event, which will run till Friday will feature talks by 15 speakers which includes, Dr Sydney Brenner, who won the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine in 2002, and Dr Dan Schechtman, who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

Participants will also visit research and development organisations here in Singapore.

The National Research Foundation hopes that these visits will entice the international participants - most of whom are currently PhD students or postdoctoral researchers under 35 - to pursue research careers in Singapore.