Research Assistant (Remote Sensing of Tropical Forests)

National University of Singapore; Singapore; Remote; SGD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established research institution is seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to join a project focused on the remote sensing of tropical forests. This role involves significant fieldwork in various ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of carbon dynamics and forest health. Ideal candidates will have a strong educational background in environmental sciences, ecology, or geography, along with practical experience in fieldwork and laboratory settings. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to vital ecological research, enhancing understanding of Southeast Asian forests while working in a collaborative environment. If you are passionate about environmental conservation and eager to make a difference, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration

Provident fund benefits for citizens and residents

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, ecology, or geography required.
• Experience in fieldwork and laboratory work is essential.

Responsibilities

• Participate in studying forest structure and carbon dynamics.
• Assist in collecting field data and conducting fieldwork.

Skills

Fieldwork experience

Laboratory work

Organizational skills

Remote sensing data collection

Data management

Programming (R, Python)

Education

Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences

Bachelor's degree in ecology

Bachelor's degree in geography

Tools

GIS software (QGIS, ArcGIS)

Drone operation

Job description

Company description:

The National University of Singapore is the national research university of Singapore. Founded in 1905 as the Straits Settlements and the Federated Malay States Government Medical School, NUS is the oldest higher education institution in Singapore.

Job description:

Research Assistant in Remote Sensing of Tropical Forests (Department of Geography)

Conservation and restoration of carbon-rich Southeast Asian forests are of tremendous ecological and economical importance to ASEAN countries in the fight against climate change. However, the exact spatial distribution, health status, and carbon stock of these forests are still not well understood. While many conventional satellite datasets have been used to estimate forest carbon stocks, their accuracy is often insufficient for credible and trustworthy nature-based climate solutions marketplaces. This 3-year project funded by Singapore's Academic Research Council, Ministry of Education (MOE), aims to enhance the measurement of forest structure and aboveground biomass by integrating remote sensing observations with ground measurements across Southeast Asian ecosystems.

Invitation to Apply

The Department of Geography at the National University of Singapore invites applications for a research assistant position in a project focused on remote sensing of tropical forests. Prior field experience in tropical ecosystems is required. The position is expected to commence in June 2025 and will last for 12 months.

Job Responsibilities

• Participate in studying forest structure and carbon dynamics within various Singaporean forest ecosystems as part of a research team.
• Assist in collecting field data, including tree surveys and terrestrial laser scanning, in coordination with team members.
• Spend significant time conducting fieldwork, potentially including multi-day stays on Pulau Ubin.
• Support project administration tasks such as procurement, SOP preparation, and documentation.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, ecology, or geography.
• Experience in fieldwork and laboratory work, preferably in coastal and forested ecosystems.
• Highly organized, proactive, and capable of working independently.
• Willingness to undertake extensive fieldwork, including multi-day stays on Pulau Ubin.

Desired Skills

• Proficiency with GIS software (e.g., QGIS or ArcGIS).
• Experience with remote sensing data collection and processing; drone operation experience is highly desirable.
• Data management and analysis skills using programming languages such as R or Python.

Terms of Appointment

1. The appointment duration is up to 12 months.
2. Competitive remuneration will be provided.
3. Singapore citizens and permanent residents are eligible for provident fund benefits.

Application Procedure

Interested applicants should submit: i) a letter of interest, ii) a CV, and iii) contact details for two references via email to Asst. Prof. Hao Tang at [e-mail].

Additional Information

• Location: Kent Ridge Campus
• Organization: Arts & Social Sciences
• Department: Geography
• Employee Referral Eligible: No
• Job requisition ID: 28732