Strategic Research Leader & Operations Lead

Nanyang Technological University Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious academic institution in Singapore seeks a Senior Assistant Director, Research to shape and deliver its research strategy. This role involves overseeing the research ecosystem, driving performance, and aligning strategy with operations. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree, at least 10 years of experience in research administration, and 3 years of leadership experience. Strong interpersonal skills and proficiency in data analysis are essential. Join a globally ambitious environment to enhance research impact.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of relevant work experience in research administration.
• Experience in grant sourcing and administration in academic/research institutions.
• At least 3 years of people management/leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the College’s research ecosystem and drive performance.
• Ensure alignment between research strategy and operations.
• Support the development of research centres and major initiatives.

Skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Data analysis and reporting

Financial projection and budgeting

MS Office applications

Quantitative data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university

Job description

We are seeking an exceptional strategic leader to serve as Senior Assistant Director, Research within the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (CoHASS). Working closely with the Dean, Associate Dean (Research), and Director (Operations), you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering the College’s research strategy, translating vision into programmes, structures and support systems that enable academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global visibility.

As the senior professional lead for research, you will oversee the College’s research ecosystem, driving performance, strengthening research impact, and fostering connections across Schools, Research Centres, and external partners. You will lead and enhance research support operations, ensuring high-quality and efficient systems that enable both investigator-led and collaborative research to thrive, while also supporting the development of research centres, major initiatives, and competitive funding opportunities.

Working in close partnership with the Director (Operations), you will help ensure alignment between research strategy, operations, and resource planning across the College, translating strategic priorities into coordinated execution. With a strong focus on data-informed decision-making, you will provide strategic insight on research performance and influence, while contributing to a research environment that supports diverse scholarship and intellectual leadership.

This is a unique opportunity for a collaborative and forward-looking leader to shape the future of research in a globally ambitious and interdisciplinary environment.

Relevant Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
• At least 10 years of relevant work experience in research administration especially in grant sourcing, grant administration (pre-grant award and post-grand award) in an academic and (or) research institutions.
• At least 3 years of people management/ leadership experience.
  
  

Skills & Competencies

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders across levels and cultures.
• Highly proficient in data analysis and reporting of grant information and research output, financial projection and budgeting.
• Able to handle confidential information sensitively.
• Strong working knowledge of MS Office applications. Knowledge of quantitative data analysis would be a plus.
• Proactive, resourceful, adaptable, hands-on, meticulous, organised and motivated to take on new challenges.
  
  

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.


Hiring Institution: NTU