We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated scientist to expand and strengthen the vector-borne disease research programme at the National Environment Agency’s Environmental Health Institute (NEA-EHI).
National Environment Agency
Principal Research Officer – Arthropod Ecology Section (Contract)
Fixed TermsClosed
What the role is
What you will be working on
What you will be working on:
- Advance EHI's biosurveillance programme focusing on sandflies, biting midges, and fleas
- Conduct research to improve understanding of diversity, distribution, population dynamics, and ecology of target arthropods
- Assess and manage public health risks posed by biting arthropods through evidence-based research
- Provide strategic scientific guidance and oversight for research programmes
- Contribute to studies supporting Singapore's vector surveillance and control programme
- Conduct high-quality research that advances scientific understanding in the field
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals to share knowledge with the broader scientific community
What we are looking for
What we are looking for:
- Postgraduate qualification (Masters or PhD) in entomology, zoology, biology or a related life-science discipline; with formal training or applied experience in medical or public health entomology
- At least 3 years of relevant research experience with demonstrated expertise in the biology, ecology, and surveillance of sandflies, biting midges, and/or fleas, including an understanding of their public health significance
- Proven hands-on experience in field surveillance and vector identification, including morphological taxonomy and molecular approaches such as DNA barcoding, supported by an established track record of high-quality scientific publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals
- Proficiency in biostatistics and statistical software (e.g. SPSS, R) with demonstrated ability to lead complex analytical approaches
- Demonstrated capability in leading research projects or programmes, including strategic planning, coordination of multidisciplinary teams, and mentorship of junior staff
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
- Adaptability and resilience to operate effectively in a fast-paced, operationally linked research environment
- Willingness to work staggered hours including after-office hours, weekends or public holidays when operational needs arise
- Experience in insect colony establishment and maintenance and/or vector–pathogen interaction studies preferred
- Experience in insecticide resistance monitoring, evaluation of novel control methods, or biological control approaches for sandflies, biting midges and/or fleas preferred
- Familiarity with emerging technologies applied to vector surveillance, such as remote sensing, GIS-based analyses, or artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled tools preferred
About your application process
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 Environment Agency or the wider Public Service.
About National Environment Agency
The National Environment Agency (NEA) is the leading public organisation responsible for ensuring a clean and sustainable environment for Singapore. Its key roles are to improve and sustain a clean environment, promote sustainability and resource efficiency, maintain high public health standards, provide timely and reliable meteorological information, and encourage a vibrant hawker culture. NEA works closely with its partners and the community to develop and spearhead environmental and public health initiatives and programmes. It is committed to motivating every individual to care for the environment as a way of life, in order to build a liveable and sustainable Singapore for present and future generations.
For more information, visit www.nea.gov.sg
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