Senior Scientific Officer (Applied Pathogen Genomics, Research)

CDA Communicable Diseases Agency; Singapore; On-site; SGD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

An established government agency is seeking a dedicated researcher to lead studies on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This role involves overseeing genomic data analysis, developing experimental designs, and fostering collaborations with academic and industry partners. You will play a crucial role in addressing a significant global public health threat while managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. If you are passionate about public health and possess strong analytical skills, this is an exciting opportunity to contribute to vital research that impacts community health.

Qualifications

• Minimum tertiary qualifications, preferably MSc in Biological Sciences or related fields.
• Experience in computational analysis and infectious disease research is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee genome sequencing and analysis projects.
• Prepare proposals for grant funding applications.
• Foster collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners.

Skills

Critical thinking

English communication

Computational analysis

Research publication

Education

MSc in Biological Sciences

Molecular Biology

Job description

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.

Your responsibilities include leading and conducting laboratory and/or epidemiology-based research in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), reviewing existing publications, independently designing, planning and supervising experiments/projects.

Providing scientific expertise, developing new methods for AMR research, analyzing data, and preparing presentations and publications are key components of this role, which requires managing multiple priorities and stakeholders in a dynamic environment.

What you will be working on

AMR is a critical global public health threat. Your work includes overseeing a study on AMR gene transmission in Singapore, analyzing genomic data to identify transmission pathways, and investigating the mechanisms of 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 academic institutions and industry partners.
• Adhere to hospital and laboratory policies and directives.
• Comply with safety regulations and infection control policies; promote a collegial working environment.
• Any other duties assigned by the Principal Investigator.

What we are looking for

• Minimum tertiary qualifications, preferably MSc in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, or related fields.
• Experience in computational analysis is advantageous.
• Experience in infectious disease research is advantageous.
• Prior experience in publishing research findings is advantageous.
• Excellent English communication skills.
• Critical thinking skills and willingness to learn.

As part of the shortlisting process, candidates may need to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment.