Research Associate (Biological Sciences)

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global university in Singapore is seeking a detailed-oriented Research Associate to join the Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions. This role focuses on carbon accounting in Southeast Asia, requiring a Master's degree and at least two years of experience. Responsibilities include supporting impactful research and managing projects. Candidates must have strong skills in data handling and analysis, coding, and a collaborative spirit. The application deadline is January 31, 2026.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• At least 2 years’ relevant work experience.

Responsibilities

• Support development of policy-relevant research on nature-based solutions.
• Work closely with other researchers.
• Design field studies and data collection campaigns.
• Conduct data processing and analysis.
• Provide administrative support on research-related matters.
• Manage country-level collaboration.
• Contribute to research manuscripts and reports.

Skills

Handling large-scale geospatial data

Statistical computing and data visualisation tools

Coding/scripting using R and/or Python

Strong organisational and problem-solving skills

Highly self-motivated

Team player

Education

Master’s degree in natural science, climate science, geography, data science, engineering

Job description

Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUS Career Portal

Your application will be processed only if you apply via NUS Career Portal

Job Description

The Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions (CNCS) at the National University of Singapore invites applications for the position of Research Associate, who will work on carbon accounting in Southeast Asia. The appointment is for an initial period of one year with the possibility of renewal and is expected to begin in March 2026 or soon thereafter.

Responsibilities

• Support the development of policy-relevant, multidisciplinary, and impactful research on nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation in natural and/or urban environments, integrating remote sensing and field data
• Work closely with other researchers as an effective team member
• Design field studies and data collection campaigns
• Data processing and analysis
• Provide general administrative support on research-related matters, including procurement and permit applications
• Manage a country-level collaboration
• Contribute to the preparation of research manuscripts and reports

Qualifications / Discipline

• Master’s degree in natural science, climate science, geography, data science, engineering, or a related field
• At least 2 years’ relevant work experience

Skills

• Handling large-scale geospatial data and conducting geospatial analysis and modelling
• Statistical computing and data visualisation tools
• Coding/scripting using R and/or Python programming languages
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills, including attention to detail
• Highly self‑motivated, independent, but also a team player
• Willing to work flexible hours and take on extra duties as required

Experience

• Experience with the collecting, processing and analysis of remote sensing data (e.g., optical, LiDAR, SAR) for the study of natural ecosystems (preferred)
• Experience with UAVs and/or TLS would be advantageous
• Experience in conducting and/or organising field surveys (e.g., forest inventory, biodiversity census)
• Previous publications in peer‑reviewed journals where relevant
• Knowledge of international carbon standards is a plus

About the Centre

The QS World University rankings regularly place NUS in the top 15 universities in the world and number one in Asia. The NUS Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions is the focal point for world‑class research and thought leadership on climate change impacts and solutions in service of society. The Centre aims to deliver new knowledge and solutions to inform policies, strategies and actions by producing credible, salient and legitimate science that informs nature‑based climate strategies and actions, building capacity and empowering leadership and communicating and engaging with the wider society.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Interested applicants please submit the following by 31 January 2026:

• Cover letter
• CV

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.