Job description
Join the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) as a Senior Research Officer I, Infectious Diseases. You will play a pivotal role in biosafety, risk assessment, and cutting-edge research on high-risk pathogens to advance Singapore's pandemic preparedness.
In this role, you will work within multidisciplinary teams to ensure rigorous biosafety and biosecurity standards, contribute to study design, data collection, and dissemination of findings to policymakers and the scientific community. You’ll collaborate with national and international partners, supervise lab activities, and help build training programs that elevate the capabilities of researchers working with dangerous pathogens.
We are seeking a motivated professional with strong knowledge of biosafety regulations, hands-on lab experience, and a commitment to excellence in research and compliance. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to public health, work at the intersection of science and policy, and grow within a respected national research institute.
As part of our team, you’ll mentor scientists, oversee facility operations, manage risk mitigation strategies, and contribute to national and international research programs focused on preventing disease outbreaks and strengthening biosecurity measures.
Responsibility
- Lead and oversee biosafety program activities for infectious disease research, ensuring compliance with national and international biosafety guidelines (BSL-2/3 as appropriate).
- Conduct risk assessments for proposed experiments, facilities, and personnel, and implement mitigations.
- Develop, review, and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling high-risk pathogens, equipment, and waste management.
- Coordinate biosafety training and certification for researchers and staff; mentor junior personnel.
- Manage regulatory documentation, ensure proper record-keeping, and assist in audits and inspections.
- Collaborate with internal research teams and external partners on project design, data analysis, and dissemination of findings to stakeholders.
- Monitor laboratory facilities for biosafety compliance, maintain inventory, and oversee incident reporting and investigation.
- Support pandemic preparedness initiatives through threat assessment, surveillance-related activities, and policy-relevant research.
Qualification
- Master’s degree or PhD in life sciences, microbiology, virology, infectious diseases, or a related field.
- At least 5 years of hands-on experience in biosafety, pathogen handling, or infectious diseases research in a laboratory setting.
- In-depth knowledge of biosafety regulations and risk assessment methodologies; familiarity with BSL-2/3 labs; relevant biosafety certifications preferred.
- Proven ability to design and implement SOPs, maintain compliance, and participate in audits and inspections.
- Strong analytical, data management, and scientific writing skills; ability to communicate complex findings to diverse audiences.
- Experience working cross-functionally with researchers, clinicians, and policymakers; project management capability.
- Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a regulated environment.
- Eligibility to work in Singapore; willingness to support occasional shift work if required.