The Singapore Botanic Gardens (SBG) is one of the oldest tropical botanical gardens and one of only three botanic gardens in the world inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also hosts a Tropical Forest Ecology Research programme to coordinate research to inform forest conservation strategies and policy in Singapore and the region. The SBG is a Division of the National Parks Board which is responsible for Singapore’s network of parks and nature reserves.
National Parks Board
Researcher / Forest Ecology, SBG (Contract)
Fixed Terms
Closing on 03 Dec 2025What the role is
What you will be working on
You will be part of a Bukit Timah Forest Observatory project team to conduct the re-censuses of one of the two 2-ha Bukit Timah Forest Dynamics plots in the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. The secondary forest plot was established and first censused in 2004 and re-censused approximately every five years. The plots are part of the Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) network of permanent research plots. You will also work closely with colleagues from the Conservation Division of the National Parks Board who manage Singapore’s nature reserves. Specifically, you will:
Carry out the 5th re-census of the secondary forest plot, involving finding and re-measuring all stems from the last census and measuring and identifying all new stems 1-cm diameter or larger
Plan for surveys and prepare the necessary permissions and equipment prior to each session of field work
Key in data and maintain the equipment after each session of fieldwork
Train and supervise student interns, volunteers, and other workers to assist in the re-census and other related surveys around the Nature Reserve
Coordinate with other groups of researchers carrying out studies in the plots and the Nature Reserve
Assist in preliminary data analysis and preparation of maps, tables, figures, slides, written reports, and other materials to summarise the progress and findings of the project
Assist in sharing of the findings to internal stakeholders as well as the broader community
What we are looking for
Area of study in Biology, Environmental Sciences, Life Sciences or Geography, or related disciplines
Physically fit enough to carry equipment and walk long distances in forested, hilly terrain and carry out data collection
Organised, meticulous, and independent
Good interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment under time pressure
Good written and verbal communication skills in the English language
Preferably experience with plant identification, data analysis (e.g., using the statistical programming language R), and Geographic Information Systems software
Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Successful candidate will be offered a 11-month employment contract.
About your application process
This job is closing on 03 Dec 2025.
If you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the job ad closing date, we seek your understanding that it is likely that we are not moving forward with your application for this role. We thank you for your interest and would like to assure you that this does not affect your other job applications with the Public Service. We encourage you to explore and apply for other roles within National Parks Board or the wider Public Service.
About National Parks Board
At the National Parks Board (NParks), we take pride in conserving our natural heritage and enhancing green spaces for all to enjoy in our City in Nature. We have a multi-talented and highly passionate team that is driven by the goal to create a unique world-class living environment through excellence in biodiversity conservation, greenery and recreation, and veterinary care in partnership with the community. If you share our love for nature and animals, and our zest for innovation and continuous learning, we have the perfect working environment for you.
Learn more about National Parks Board