Researcher/Snr Researcher (Greenery Planning & Design) (GML)-Contract

National Parks Board; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A public agency for urban environmental management in Singapore is seeking an Urban Data Scientist to join their Centre for Science of Urban Nature. The role involves leveraging urban data science and geospatial modelling to assess ecosystem services and support urban planning. Ideal candidates will have a postgraduate degree and strong skills in geospatial analytics, including proficiency in programming languages such as R and Python. The position offers a contract until 31 Dec 2028, contributing to Singapore's sustainable urban development.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree in geography, urban planning, or related fields.
• Experience in ecosystem services modelling and valuation.
• Strong skills in geospatial modelling and data analytics.

Responsibilities

• Leverage urban data science to model ecosystem services.
• Lead geospatial modelling initiatives.
• Work with policymakers to turn insights into actionable guidance.

Skills

Geospatial modelling

Data analytics

Machine learning

Spatial statistics

Dashboard creation

Stakeholder management

Education

Postgraduate degree in geography or related field

Tools

R

Python

JavaScript

Job description

What the role is:

Join the Centre for Science of Urban Nature (CSUN) at the National Parks Board (NParks) and see your research directly shape Singapore's urban environment. We're establishing a geospatial modelling team where your work won't just advance academic knowledge but also inform policy decisions and guide how Singapore plans, develops, and manages its natural capital.

CSUN conducts application-focused research across urban greenery and ecology, from arboriculture to human-nature relationships. Our mission is to translate cutting-edge science into practical solutions that enhance Singapore's tropical urban living environment.

What you will be working on:

• Leveraging urban data science: Harness large-scale geospatial datasets and advanced analytics to model ecosystem services (thermal cooling, stormwater management, recreational benefits) and assess accessibility-based service levels across Singapore's urban landscape
• Leading applied analytics projects: Scope and manage geospatial modelling initiatives that combine spatial statistics, machine learning, and urban systems analysis to address real operational challenges
• Translating data into action: Work with policymakers, planners, and cross-functional teams to transform complex analytical insights into actionable guidance for Singapore's urban development
• Building analytical capacity: Advance NParks' capabilities in urban data science, geospatial analytics, and computational modelling for urban ecosystems

What we are looking for:

• Postgraduate degree in geography, urban planning, urban economics, environmental science, ecology, environmental economics, data science, or related fields
• Experience in ecosystem services modelling, ecosystem services valuation and/or natural capital accounting
• Strong geospatial modelling and data analytics skills, including experience working with large urban datasets and conducting spatial and statistical analysis
• Able to build dashboards or simple applications to facilitate user interaction with data.
• Proficiency in R, Python, Javascript, or similar coding languages for data analysis and visualization
• Track record in urban data science and analytics projects, particularly ecosystem service modelling, and integrated valuation
• Experience with advanced analytical techniques (spatial statistics, machine learning, network analysis) applied to urban systems
• Research grant and/or project management experience
• Demonstrated success working with diverse stakeholders (government agencies, vendors, academia)

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Successful candidates will be offered employment contract till 31 Dec 2028.

About National Parks Board

At the National Parks Board (NParks), we take pride in conserving our natural heritage and enhancing green spaces for all to enjoy in our City in Nature. We have a multi-talented and highly passionate team that is driven by the goal to create a unique world-class living environment through excellence in biodiversity conservation, greenery and recreation, and veterinary care in partnership with the community. If you share our love for nature and animals, and our zest for innovation and continuous learning, we have the perfect working environment for you.