Principal/ Lead/ Senior Scientific Officer (Virology)

Communicable Diseases Agency

Fixed Terms

What the role is

You will be responsible for directing a core team of scientists, conducting specialized research, and supporting the Principal Scientific Officer (Virology) for the virology section of the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) Research Laboratory.

You will be working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment that would require the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders at the same time.

What you will be working on

You will be designing and conducting virology research that drives public health policy decisions, develop and implement new (or improved) cell culture-based systems and assays for viruses of public health importance. You will also manage and participate in data analysis and interpretation of scientific results for the virology team, assist in preparation of research reports, presentations, manuscripts, and grants, and communicate and coordinate with collaborators.

What we are looking for

Key Job Responsibilities:

Design and conduct research related to the virology section of CDA Research Laboratory.
Support the rapid response to outbreaks of national importance.
Train and supervise laboratory staff of virology section.
Assist with project management.
Participate in collaborations with national and international public health partners.

Job Requirements:

At least 5 years of relevant experience in fields such as virology, microbiology, biological sciences or related field.
Familiarity to develop and implement cell-culture based virus assays for public health needs.
Experience in analysing and reporting research results and outcomes.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including for research reports, presentations, manuscripts and grants.
Ability to manage multiple projects.
BSL-3 experience or willingness to be trained to work with infectious virus in a BSL-3 facility (preferred but not required).

As part of the shortlisting process for this role, candidates may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment.

About Communicable Diseases Agency

The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) was established in 2025 as a statutory board under Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) to serve as the central authority for public health policymaking to manage and control the threat of communicable diseases. This is aimed at strengthening Singapore's public health capabilities built during the COVID-19 response to ensure a unified command and coordinated approach across all situations, from routine disease control to future outbreaks. CDA safeguards the nation from communicable diseases through disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, vaccination programs, public education, and global health collaboration. Beyond domestic activities, the CDA aims to expand Singapore’s global outreach and foster collaboration with international partners.