Invitation to apply for Head, Department of Biological Sciences

The Faculty of Science at the National University of Singapore (NUS); Singapore; On-site; SGD 20,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution in Singapore is seeking a Head of the Department of Biological Sciences to provide academic leadership and enhance research and teaching. Candidates should possess a Ph.D. and a strong background in biological sciences, alongside a commitment to advancing educational and research goals. The application deadline is December 22, 2025.

Qualifications

• Strong commitment to academic administration.
• Demonstrated record of research excellence.
• Relevant administrative experience in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic leadership for a research-active department.
• Lead the department toward excellence in research and teaching.
• Promote academic excellence among faculty.

Skills

Research background in biological sciences

Academic leadership

Management experience

Education

Ph.D. degree

Job description

Overview

The Faculty of Science at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is seeking a visionary leader with excellent academic standing in the biological sciences or related fields to serve as next Head of the Department of Biological Sciences.

The Department of Biological Sciences has a rich history in shaping education and research in Singapore, formed from the merger of the Department of Botany (founded in 1949) and the Department of Zoology (founded in 1950). For the past two decades, the Department has played a central role in launching the interdisciplinary Life Sciences programme for undergraduates while developing research areas in biodiversity and conservation, genomics, molecular and cell biology, neurobiology, and environmental science. The Department seeks to expand its undergraduate and graduate offerings, deepen industry and international partnerships, and become a nexus for multidisciplinary research in human health, climate change and food security.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic leadership for a highly research-active department comprising over 50 tenure-track and 30 teaching-track faculty members, as well as close to 500 graduate students.
• Lead the department toward greater excellence in research and teaching in both undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Strengthen the department’s research facilities and infrastructure and promote academic excellence among faculty.
• Advance the department’s strategic goals, build industry and international partnerships, and foster multidisciplinary collaboration across the Faculty of Science and the University.

Qualifications

• Excellent research background in any field of biological sciences with a strong commitment to academic administration.
• Demonstrated record of research excellence, academic leadership, and management experience of large projects, programmes, and/or academic units.
• Relevant administrative experience in higher education.
• A Ph.D. degree from an internationally recognized and accredited programme is required.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to share their vision and strategies for advancing the department at the interview stage.

Application details

Interested candidates may forward an application package including:

• A letter describing personal goals, vision for the department, research plans, teaching record and administrative experience
• Curriculum vitae
• Names and contact details of at least six referees

Please send the application package to:

Biological Sciences Head Search Committee
c/o Ms Lisa Lau (Email: [e-mail])

Faculty of Science Dean’s Office
National University of Singapore
Block S16 Level 9
6 Science Drive 2
Singapore 117546

Closing date of application: 22 December 2025