Government Technology Agency

[What the role is]

The CDA is a new government agency that is being established by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to oversee Singapore’s communicable disease preparedness, prevention and control, surveillance, risk assessment and outbreak response. The CDA PO’s role is to plan and execute the setup of the CDA, which will consolidate and build on the public health functions under MOH, the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, and the Health Promotion Board.

To lead and conduct laboratory and/or epidemiology-based research in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), review existing publications in related fields, independently design, plan and supervise experiments/projects.

You will provide scientific expertise for work in the AMR field, develop new methods for AMR research, analyse data and prepare presentations and publications. You will be working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment that would require the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders at the same time.

[What you will be working on]

AMR is one of the top global public health and development threats. It is of utmost importance to improve our understanding of the AMR situation and fill in existing knowledge gaps. You will oversee a study investigating the transmission of AMR genes in Singapore. You will analyse genomic data to identify transmission pathways of AMR and investigate the mechanisms driving the spread of AMR 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 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.