Scientific Officer/Assistant Director (Scientific Programmes)

Public Service Division; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Public Service Division is seeking a scientifically accomplished leader to drive comprehensive surveillance initiatives and outbreak response within a public health research environment. You will oversee strategic projects, guide laboratory innovation, and coordinate multi-institution collaborations while mentoring junior scientists.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology or related field, with 5+ years in related work, and demonstrates strong regulatory understanding, organization,

Qualifications

• Recognized education in life sciences or equivalent.
• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology or Infectious Diseases, or MBBS/MD with advantage.
• More than 5 years’ experience in Molecular Biology/Clinical Diagnosis/Infectious Diseases.
• Good understanding of local regulatory requirements.
• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Lead surveillance projects and conduct outbreak investigations.
• Develop novel diagnostic assays and optimize laboratory procedures.
• Mentor staff and coordinate multidisciplinary project teams across institutions.
• Publish findings, present at conferences, and pursue research funding.

Skills

Leadership

Project coordination

Communication

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Analytical thinking

Education

Ph.D. in Microbiology/Life Sciences

Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (advantage)

Job description

[What the role is]

The role encompasses comprehensive scientific leadership within a research and public health environment, combining strategic oversight with hands-on innovation.

This position requires driving critical surveillance initiatives and outbreak response efforts whilst simultaneously advancing the field through the development of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and optimised laboratory methodologies.

The role demands strong leadership capabilities to guide scientific teams, foster professional development of junior staff, and coordinate complex multidisciplinary projects that span institutional boundaries.

[What you will be working on]

• The scientific officer shall lead surveillance projects, conduct outbreak investigations, establish research priorities, develop novel diagnostic assays, evaluate emerging technologies, and optimize laboratory procedures.
• Supervise scientific staff, mentor junior scientists, lead multidisciplinary project teams, collaborate with external institutions, and conduct training programmes.
• Publish research findings, present at conferences, provide expert consultation, and secure research funding to support ongoing projects.

[What we are looking for]

• Recognized education in life sciences or equivalent
• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Infectious Diseases /equivalent or Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine, would be an advantage.
• More than 5 years’ experience in Molecular Biology / Clinical Diagnosis / Infectious Disease related work.
• Good understanding of local regulatory requirements
• Excellent organization skills and attention to details
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral)
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team and in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders
• Committed to their work with a proactive and resilient attitude

As part of the shortlisting process for this role, candidates may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment.