Research Associate (Biological Sciences)

National University of Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The National University of Singapore is seeking a Research Associate in Biological Sciences to contribute to forest carbon accounting methodologies in Southeast Asia. The role entails applying geospatial data processing and analyzing datasets at the Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions, with an appointment possible for renewal after one year.

Ideal candidates will possess a Master’s Degree and relevant experience in environmental data analysis, and will support numerous research activities, including the integration of ecological datasets and field survey coordination.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years relevant work experience in related fields.
• Experience processing and analysing remote sensing data including optical and LiDAR.
• Experience integrating field and geospatial datasets.

Responsibilities

• Support the development of forest carbon accounting methodologies.
• Conduct geospatial data processing, analysis, and modelling.
• Assist in field surveys and data collection campaigns.
• Contribute to technical reports and research manuscripts.

Skills

Handling and analysing geospatial datasets

Applying remote sensing to ecological or environmental systems

Proficiency in R and/or Python for data analysis

Data processing, visualisation, and statistical analysis

Strong organisational and problem-solving skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Willingness to work flexible hours and take on extra duties

Education

Master’s Degree in Natural Science, Climate Science, Geography, Data Science, Engineering or related field

Job description

Research Associate (Biological Sciences)

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

The Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions (CNCS) at the National University of Singapore invites applications for the position of Research Associate, who will contribute to research and implementation of forest carbon accounting approaches in Southeast Asia. The appointment is for an initial period of one year with the possibility of renewal and is expected to begin as soon as possible.

Responsibilities

• Support the development and application of forest carbon accounting methodologies using field and remote sensing datasets
• Conduct geospatial data processing, analysis, and modelling
• Assist in developing data processing workflows and analytical pipelines
• Support the integration and management of large ecological and geospatial datasets
• Assist in designing and implementing field surveys and data collection campaigns
• Contribute to technical reports, documentation, and research manuscripts
• Provide support for project coordination, including collaborations with partners
• Provide administrative support for research-related activities (e.g., procurement, permits)

Qualifications

Master’s Degree in Natural Science, Climate Science, Geography, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field with at least 2 years’ relevant work experience.

Skills

• Experience handling and analysing geospatial datasets
• Experience applying remote sensing to ecological or environmental systems
• Proficiency in R and/or Python for data analysis
• Experience with data processing, visualisation, and statistical analysis
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willing to work flexible hours and take on extra duties as required

Experience

• Experience processing and analysing remote sensing data (optical, LiDAR, SAR)
• Experience integrating field and geospatial datasets
• Experience conducting or supporting field surveys (e.g., forest inventory)
• Experience working with environmental or ecological datasets

Advantageous

• Experience with LiDAR-derived forest structure metrics
• Experience with UAV-based remote sensing or terrestrial laser scanning
• Experience working on carbon accounting, MRV systems, or nature-based climate solutions
• Familiarity with carbon standards and methodologies (e.g., Verra, Gold Standard, ART‑TREES)
• Experience contributing to technical reports or documentation