Gallagher Re backs PhD research into Asia’s natural catastrophe risks

Gallagher Re has teamed up with Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) to launch a research programme focused on natural catastrophe risks across Asia.

The Gallagher Re Asia Hazards Program has been established in partnership with NTU’s Asian School of the Environment and the Earth Observatory of Singapore.

The reinsurance broker’s initiative will fund three PhD scholarships, with students beginning in January 2026.

The work will tackle key catastrophe challenges in the region, including cyclone and tsunami risk, satellite-based disaster mapping and advanced flood modelling for Asian cities.

Hui Yen Tai, regional director for South East Asia, Korea and Taiwan at Gallagher Re, said the partnership marked an investment in scientific capability in some of the world’s most exposed markets.

“Outputs from the Gallagher Re Asia Hazards Program will support new, innovative property catastrophe insights that deepen understanding of risks across Asia, inform more effective disaster preparedness strategies, and support improved re/insurance decision-making,” she said.

The programme aims to help narrow Asia’s protection gap as climate-related losses escalate across Southeast, South and East Asia.

Sang-Ho Yun, director of the Remote Sensing Lab at EOS, said remote sensing technology was transforming disaster management.

“Our work will enhance rapid and comprehensive satellite-based disaster-mapping capabilities, enabling faster and more effective humanitarian and governmental responses,” he said.

David Lallemant, associate professor at EOS and ASE, said flood models are essential for climate and disaster risk planning.

“Our work will help cities across Asia better anticipate and respond to extreme weather events, ultimately saving lives and reducing economic losses,” he said.

Gallagher Re said the initiative reflects a growing trend of collaboration between the re/insurance sector and academia to advance data-driven risk understanding and resilience.

Professor Adam Switzer, assistant dean at NTU’s College of Science and leader of EOS’s Climate Transformation Programme, said the partnership would support coastal resilience.

“Cyclones and tsunamis pose increasing threats to coastal communities and infrastructure,” he said.

“Through this program, we will develop science-based strategies to mitigate these risks and support sustainable development in vulnerable coastal regions,” Switzer added.