Senior Researcher/Researcher (Nature & People Research)

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

Job summary

A research-driven organization in Singapore is seeking a qualified candidate to lead research initiatives studying human interactions with urban nature. The role requires a Masters or PhD in a relevant field, extensive experience with geospatial analysis and research methodologies, and the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Candidates with strong presentation and analytical skills are encouraged to apply, as the position involves producing compelling research outputs to enhance urban liveability and well-being.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years relevant work or research experience preferred.
• Experience with geospatial analysis tools is advantageous.
• Proven skills in qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead innovative research on urban nature experiences.
• Design studies integrating geospatial analysis.
• Analyze and interpret research data using GIS technologies.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on impactful research.
• Present findings through geospatial visualizations and reports.

Skills

Research design

Statistical analysis

Geospatial analysis

Data visualization

Interpersonal skills

Education

Masters or PhD in Sociology, Psychology, or related field

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

SPSS

Python for GIS

Job description

The Centre for Science of Urban Nature (CSUN), part of the National Parks Board, drives application‑focused research to support Singapore’s vision of a City in Nature. Our research spans urban greenery, ecology, arboriculture, sustainable landscaping, geospatial analytics, and human–nature interactions - integrating science, design, and policy to enhance liveability, well-being, and ecological resilience in tropical cities. We aim to be the regional leader in advancing and sharing evidence‑based strategies for harnessing greenery, ecology, and location intelligence to improve the urban living environment.

What you will be working on

• Lead and contribute to innovative research examining how people experience, use, and benefit from nature in urban Singapore.
• Design and implement studies on themes such as recreational quality, mental well-being, social connectivity, and resilience—integrating geospatial and spatial-temporal analysis to assess patterns, accessibility, and environmental exposure
• Collect, analyse, and interpret data using both traditional research methods and GIS technologies to model and map human–nature relationships.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across NParks, universities, government agencies, and industry partners to deliver impactful and policy‑relevant research.
• Produce and present findings through geospatial visualisations, technical reports, publications, policy briefs, and stakeholder presentations.
• Support other research and policy initiatives in the branch or agency as required.

What we are looking for

• Masters or PhD in a field related to Sociology, Psychology, Human Geography,Geospatial Science, Environmental Science, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Public Policy
• Experience with geospatial analysis tools (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and spatial statisticsis advantageous
• Proven skills in research design, statistical analysis, and qualitative/quantitative methodologies.
• Experience with data visualisation and mapping for research communication.
• Proficiency with statistical and geospatial software (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for GIS).
• At least 3 years of relevant work or research experience preferred.

Preferably, candidates should possess:

• Demonstrated ability to plan, manage, and deliver research projects, including those with a strong geospatial analysis component.
• Strong analytical, writing, and public presentation skills, including the ability to translate spatial data into compelling narratives for decision‑making.
• Effective interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities, with experience working in multi‑sector or interdisciplinary teams.
• Ability to handle administrative aspects of research, including grant management,budgeting, reporting, and project timeline management to ensuredeliverables are met on schedule.
• A passion for applying both social research and geospatial science to improve urban liveability, health, and community well‑being.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.