Senior Forensic Scientist (Genomics), Forensics COE

The Forensics Centre of Expertise (CoE) in HTX plays a critical role in strengthening Singapore’s Home Team forensic capabilities through science, technology, and innovation. Leading a global shift in forensic science, the CoE’s mission extends beyond solving crimes by harnessing innovative technologies to revolutionise investigations, enhance public safety, and keep Singapore ahead of an evolving threat landscape. We are seeking a motivated and technically strong Senior Forensic Scientist to join the HTX Forensics CoE. The jobholder will play a key role in our forensic biology team to lead our genomics/bioengineering workflows in areas of human identification and other forensic-related research. He/she should be well-versed in sample preparation of samples for DNA and RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of the multi-omics data, as well as ensuring the production of high-quality sequencing data. He/she is also expected to plan, design and assist in developing new technologies for interpretation of forensic biological samples, including development of on-scene biological assays. Besides genomics, he/she is also expected to participate in research projects involving other areas related to forensic biology.

The scope of work includes the following: • Horizon scanning to identify novel and applicable technologies to develop game-changing or new capabilities for forensic investigations and intelligence to support Home Team Departments (HTDs) and other agencies • Independently conduct research, develop knowledge base & instrumental capabilities, and validate new forensic methods to support HTDs’ investigative needs • Oversee, lead and manage life cycle of project’s needs & idea analysis, concept, design, planning, budget, approval, procurement, execution, tracking milestones, implementation and communication • Develop competencies and maintain currency in forensic science, technologies and analytical instrumentation within and across domains as a subject matter expert in genomics/bioengineering • Engage and work with national and international stakeholders to advance HTX’s interests • Establish a strong network with key stakeholders in the HTDs, and various departments in HTX • Collaborate with forensic counterparts, industry and academia, both locally and internationally to develop, innovate new methodologies, practices or products • Responsible for any ethics submission (institutional review board and/or equivalent) and communication • Mentor junior researchers • Perform laboratory administrative and managerial responsibilities in the upkeep of laboratory operations (e.g., procurement, lab and equipment maintenance, inventory). For example, plan and participate in procurement activities to ensure continual operations of laboratory in full compliance with governance • Commit and participate in laboratory quality assurance and workplace safety (WSHS) activities to ensure compliance with quality and safety requirements • Perform the agency’s required activities such as trials and/or training with internal stakeholders

• Minimally Post-Graduate Degree in biological/biomedical sciences, with experience in genomics, proteomics, bioengineering, biochemistry, neuroscience or related life science disciplines. • Minimum of five (5) to eight (8) years of relevant industry or research experience • Well versed in Next gen sequencing technologies • Experienced in preparing samples for sequencing analysis • Well versed in analysis of genomics data sets using commercially available software • Knowledge of research methodology, and practical experience in execution of scientific research projects in academia and/or industry • Knowledge/experience in proteomics, bioinformatics and/or computational biology would be advantageous • Experience with single-cell genomics would be advantageous • Passionate in the pursuit of scientific innovations that are aligned with the Home Teams’ mission • Committed, curious, self-motivated, self-starter, high initiative, forward-looking and fosters a climate of experimentation within the team • Strong critical thinking, analytical & reasoning skills, applies a logical methodical and hands-on approach • Ability to work collaboratively to achieve outcomes • Good communicator (oral and written) with strong interpersonal skills • Ability to operate on the international stage to build up HTX’s reputation and constantly seek new networks and active collaborations with other experts • Honesty, integrity, tenacity, including a positive attitude, empathy, gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility • Good problem-solving skills with attention to details • Ability to work under extreme pressure with tight deadlines • Able to respond to operational needs outside office hours, as and when required * All new hires are appointed on a two-year contract in the first instance and will be assessed and considered for permanent tenure over time, based on performance. As part of the shortlisting process for this role, you may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment. All applicants will be updated on the status of their applications within 4 weeks upon closing of the advertisement. #LI-VL1