Singapore Food Agency

Scientist / Senior Scientist (Biological Research)

Fixed Terms

Closing on 11 May 2026

What the role is

The mission of SFA is to ensure and secure a supply of safe food for Singapore.

The National Centre for Food Science (NCFS) supports SFA’s regulatory functions in ensuring safe food for all by providing scientific evidence through laboratory testing, research and development, data science and exposure analysis, and risk assessment to address emerging food safety and security concerns.

The officer will be a Scientist/Senior Scientist in the Biological Research team under the Research & Exposure Science Department (RESD) to develop and deploy advanced food safety research and testing capabilities to address evolving foodborne hazards.

What you will be working on

Officer will be expected to:

Drive the development and implementation of AI-driven genomics analytical workflows
Develop and validate AI/ML models and algorithms to enhance pathogen characterisation and risk assessment from genomic data using advanced bioinformatics approaches
Identify problem statements, generate research hypotheses, recommend technology-based solutions, and/or determine computational strategies, in support of the agency’s food safety operations, risk assessment and policies
Develop computational strategies and infrastructure solutions to manage genomic data and improve processing efficiency
Communicate research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, project reports that may be catered for different audience e.g. academia, scientists, policy makers and the general public
Organise and maintain proper documentation of research data, scientific interpretations, and project proposals
Perform administrative support work such as procurement and preparation of research grants

What we are looking for

BSc, MSc or PhD in computational biology, computer science, or other relevant disciplines
Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in bioinformatics analysis and machine learning (Python, R, or similar), experience with machine learning frameworks and libraries, and familiarity with Unix environments and workflow management systems such as Nextflow or Snakemake
Knowledge of AI/ML techniques including classical machine learning, deep learning, and model validation methods
Relevant work experience in the bioinformatic analysis of metagenomics and WGS data
Knowledge of computational infrastructure requirements and data management strategies for large-scale genomic datasets
Knowledge in Microbiology, Molecular Biology techniques for the testing and identification of foodborne pathogens will be an advantage
Basic understanding of food microbiology, molecular biology, and epidemiology
Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and collaborative skills
Resilience and ability to multi-task

Work Location: National Centre for Food Science, 7 International Business Park, Singapore 609919

About your application process

This job is closing on 11 May 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 Singapore Food Agency or the wider Public Service.

About Singapore Food Agency

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) is a new Statutory Board formed under the ‘Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) to oversee food safety and security. The SFA will serve as the single point of contact for public feedback on food-related issues, and strengthen management of foodborne disease outbreaks to protect public health. The SFA will also facilitate more business-friendly regulations with oversight of all food safety policies and consolidation of food laboratory capabilities to deepen competencies in food diagnostics, and research and development in food safety.

Learn more about Singapore Food Agency