Principal/ Lead/ Senior Scientific Officer (Virology)

Communicable Diseases Agency; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading government agency in Singapore seeks an experienced scientist to direct a core team in virology research. The role involves conducting specialized research, managing projects, and supporting public health policy decisions in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in virology, microbiology, or related fields.
• Familiarity with developing and implementing cell-culture-based virus assays.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct virology research to inform public health policy decisions.
• Manage data analysis and interpret scientific results for the virology team.

Skills

Communication

Project Management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences

Job description

What the role is:

[What the role is?]

You will be responsible for directing a core team of scientists, conducting specialized research, and supporting the Principal Scientific Officer (Virology) for the virology section of the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) Research Laboratory.

The CDA is a new government agency established by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to oversee Singapore’s communicable disease preparedness, prevention, control, surveillance, risk assessment, and outbreak response. The CDA Research Laboratory conducts research to inform public health policies and clinical guidelines through in-house or commissioned projects. Its virology section focuses on endemic viral diseases of public health importance, emerging and zoonotic viral pathogens, and high-consequence pathogens.

You will work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment requiring management of multiple priorities and stakeholder coordination.

What will you be working on?

• Design and conduct virology research to inform public health policy decisions.
• Develop and implement new or improved cell culture-based systems and assays for viruses of public health importance.
• Manage data analysis and interpret scientific results for the virology team.
• Assist in preparing research reports, presentations, manuscripts, and grant applications.
• Coordinate with collaborators and communicate findings effectively.

What are we looking for?

• Design and conduct research related to the virology section of the CDA Research Laboratory.
• Support rapid response efforts during outbreaks of national importance.
• Train and supervise laboratory staff within the virology section.
• Assist with project management activities.
• Participate in collaborations with national and international public health partners.

Job Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in virology, microbiology, biological sciences, or related fields.
• Familiarity with developing and implementing cell-culture-based virus assays for public health needs.
• Experience in analyzing and reporting research results and outcomes.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for reports, presentations, manuscripts, and grants.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• BSL-3 experience or willingness to undergo training to work with infectious viruses in a BSL-3 facility (preferred but not required).

As part of the shortlisting process, candidates may need to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment.