National Environment Agency

Principal Research Officer (Applied Entomology Department) – Contract

Fixed Terms

Closing on 24 Apr 2026

What the role is

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative researcher to support translational studies and technology development in environmental health surveillance, monitoring, and control. The successful candidate will contribute to the development and evaluation of advanced imaging, sensor-based, and AI-enabled systems, while also supporting innovative solutions for broader environmental health challenges in Singapore, including vector control, and other emerging operational needs.

If you are passionate about translating science and technology into real-world public health solutions, we invite you to join our dynamic team. You will work closely with multidisciplinary local and international partners to conceive, design, develop, deploy, and operationalise end-to-end solutions, ensuring that innovations are practical, scalable, and impactful in real-world settings.

What you will be working on

Design, execute, and evaluate experimental studies related to environmental surveillance, imaging systems, AI-enabled detection, and sensor technologies
Drive full life-cycle development of products and systems, from concept ideation, requirements definition, prototyping, testing, and validation, to deployment, scaling, and operational optimisation
Support the development, integration, and validation of innovative tools and end-to-end systems for environmental health monitoring and control applications
Work closely with engineers, vendors, and operational teams to translate prototypes into robust, field-deployable solutions
Conduct data analysis, interpret findings, and present results to management and relevant stakeholders
Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including Work Instructions and Risk Assessments for research, field trials, and operational activities
Identify and drive opportunities for innovation, translational application, and continuous improvement across environmental health research domains
Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, publications, technical papers, and presentations to disseminate research outcomes and support policy and operational development

What we are looking for

Master’s or PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Life Sciences, Physics, or related field; Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience will also be considered
Minimum 3 years of experience in research or technology development projects, preferably in imaging, sensors, surveillance systems, automation, or related areas
Demonstrated experience in full product/system life-cycle development, including concept design, prototyping, system integration, testing/validation, and deployment into operational environments
Experience working across R&D and operations interface, with an understanding of scalability, reliability, and maintainability considerations
Excellent team management and collaborative working abilities
Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Proven skills in experimental design, data analysis, project documentation, and scientific or technical writing
Experience in thermal imaging, AI/machine vision, sensor integration, robotics, 3D modelling, or rapid prototyping will be advantageous

About your application process

This job is closing on 24 Apr 2026.

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

Learn more about National Environment Agency