We would like to invite interested applicants to apply for the position of a Senior / Researcher (Economics) in the Research and Strategy Management Division (RSM) at the Ministry of National Development (MND). As part of a dynamic and multi-disciplinary research team, you will contribute to wider policy and planning efforts to ensure that Singapore remains An Endearing Home, A Distinctive Global City.
Ministry of National Development
Senior / Researcher (Economics), Research & Strategy Management Division
Permanent/Contract
Closing on 24 May 2026What the role is
What you will be working on
You will undertake economic research, using theory and empirical methods to deliver timely and incisive analytical insights that inform MND’s housing policies, and land use planning and development efforts. The increasingly complex nature of research questions will also require you to work closely with dedicated researchers that straddle the social sciences and data science. To this end, your role will entail the following:
• Conceptualise, design, and execute research that informs policy and planning. This will involve primary data gathering (e.g. stated preference surveys), secondary data analysis using various empirical methods (e.g. econometrics/ quasi-experiment methods for causal analysis, structural estimation, time series, and machine-learning algorithms), and developing and managing platforms, such as recurring surveys and dashboarding tools.
• Conduct think pieces that thoroughly examine housing-related topics to inform policy and planning. This will involve applying economic theories to real-world scenarios to explain market dynamics and policy mechanisms, challenge existing assumptions and offer new perspectives, as well as identify societal implications and propose feasible policies/ solutions.
• Synthesise and present research insights to Policy Divisions and Senior Management. This will involve making sense of diverse data points and sources and where necessary, draw upon economic and behavioural theories, as well as academic and policy research, to meet practical policy and planning needs.
• Engage colleagues and stakeholders to support research and non-research work in MND and the Government. This will involve building relationships with other divisions and agencies, and academia, and meeting administrative and functional needs in RSM and MND, such as secretariat duties.
What we are looking for
We are looking for applicants with the following traits:
• At least a good bachelor’s or graduate degree in Economics; additional knowledge in relevant fields would be advantageous (e.g. Statistics and Data Science).
• Strong interest in housing-related research, and ability to think creatively on how data can be used to inform policy.
• Proficiency in econometrics required for carrying out complex data analysis (e.g. regression analysis and various policy evaluation methods).
• Experience and ability to utilise data analytics tools to prepare and analyse data (e.g. R or Python).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including translating and presenting research findings to address policy and planning needs.
• Proactive, curious, resourceful, with good attention to detail; able to work independently and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team and manage diverse stakeholders.
About your application process
This job is closing on 24 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 Ministry of National Development or the wider Public Service.
About Ministry of National Development
The Ministry of National Development (MND), the lead government agency responsible for land use planning and infrastructure development, aims to transform Singapore into an endearing home and a distinctive global city. At MND, we aspire to create a quality, vibrant and sustainable living environment for our people. We also strive to shape Singapore into a world-class city of knowledge, culture and excellence – one which keeps pace with global challenges and the rising aspirations of Singaporeans.
Our Vision:
An Endearing Home, A Distinctive Global City
MND's vision reflects our growing emphasis not just on physical infrastructure, but also on the softer aspects of creating emotional attachment in our people, the global talents and corporations whom we attract here. At the same time, it articulates MND's goal of building upon Singapore’s unique distinguishing characteristics to develop Singapore as a global city of knowledge, culture and excellence.
Our Mission:
Develop World-Class Infrastructure
MND will provide quality physical infrastructure for the nation by working with our partners in the public and private sectors.
Create a Vibrant, Resilient and Sustainable Living Environment
MND will strive to make Singapore a livelier and more exciting city, and ensure our nation is well-prepared to face the growing uncertainties and complexities. MND will also maintain the quality and resilience of our built and natural environment to ensure high standards of living, and carry out development that meets the needs of the present without compromising that of future generations.
Provide Affordable and Accessible Public Housing
MND will commit to support Singaporeans' homeownership aspirations and ensure public housing remains affordable and accessible.
Build Rooted and Cohesive Communities
MND will strive to foster our citizens' attachment and love for our homeland and maintain social cohesiveness in our communities, even as Singapore continues to be an open and globalised society.
Learn more about Ministry of National Development