Senior Scientific Officer (Applied Pathogen Genomics)

The CDA is a new government agency established by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to oversee Singapore’s communicable disease preparedness, prevention and control, surveillance, risk assessment, and outbreak response. The role involves planning and executing the setup of the CDA, consolidating and building on public health functions under MOH, the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, and the Health Promotion Board.

In this position, you will lead and conduct laboratory and/or epidemiology-based research in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), reviewing existing publications, and independently designing, planning, and supervising experiments/projects. The role requires providing scientific expertise in the AMR field, developing new methods for AMR research, and managing multiple priorities and stakeholders in a dynamic environment.

What you will be working on

AMR is a significant global public health threat. Improving understanding of the AMR situation and filling knowledge gaps is crucial. You will oversee a study investigating AMR gene transmission in Singapore, analyse genomic data to identify transmission pathways, and investigate mechanisms driving AMR spread in hospitals.

Job responsibilities

• Oversee the conduct of whole genome sequencing and analysis projects.
• Provide scientific and technical expertise to develop experimental designs, protocols, and analysis workflows.
• Prepare proposals for relevant grant funding applications.
• Foster collaborations with other academic institutions and industry partners.
• Adhere to all general hospital and laboratory policies and other directives as issued.
• Comply with all safety regulations and infection control policies/procedures stipulated by the laboratory/institute.
• Help promote a working environment of collegiality and teamwork.
• Any other duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator.

What we are looking for

• Minimum tertiary qualifications from a recognised discipline, preferably MSc in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, or related fields.
• Experience in computational analysis would be an advantage.
• Experience in infectious disease research would be an advantage.
• Prior experience in publication of research findings would be an advantage.
• Excellent oral and written English communication skills.
• Astute critical thinking skills and willingness to learn.

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