Job Description

[What the role is]

The mission of SFA is to ensure and secure a supply of safe food for Singapore.

The National Centre for Food Science (NCFS) supports SFA’s regulatory functions in ensuring safe food for all by providing scientific evidence through laboratory testing, research and development, data science and exposure analysis, and risk assessment to address emerging food safety and security concerns.

The officer will be a Scientist/Senior Scientist in the Biological Research team under the Research & Exposure Science Department (RESD) to develop and deploy advanced food safety research and testing capabilities to address evolving foodborne hazards.

[What you will be working on]

Officer will be expected to:

• Drive the development and implementation of AI-driven genomics analytical workflows
• Develop and validate AI/ML models and algorithms to enhance pathogen characterisation and risk assessment from genomic data using advanced bioinformatics approaches
• Identify problem statements, generate research hypotheses, recommend technology-based solutions, and/or determine computational strategies, in support of the agency’s food safety operations, risk assessment and policies
• Develop computational strategies and infrastructure solutions to manage genomic data and improve processing efficiency
• Communicate research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, project reports that may be catered for different audience e.g. academia, scientists, policy makers and the general public
• Organise and maintain proper documentation of research data, scientific interpretations, and project proposals
• Perform administrative support work such as procurement and preparation of research grants

[What we are looking for]

• BSc, MSc or PhD in computational biology, computer science, or other relevant disciplines
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in bioinformatics analysis and machine learning (Python, R, or similar), experience with machine learning frameworks and libraries, and familiarity with Unix environments and workflow management systems such as Nextflow or Snakemake
• Knowledge of AI/ML techniques including classical machine learning, deep learning, and model validation methods
• Relevant work experience in the bioinformatic analysis of metagenomics and WGS data
• Knowledge of computational infrastructure requirements and data management strategies for large-scale genomic datasets
• Knowledge in Microbiology, Molecular Biology techniques for the testing and identification of foodborne pathogens will be an advantage
• Basic understanding of food microbiology, molecular biology, and epidemiology
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and collaborative skills
• Resilience and ability to multi-task

Work Location: National Centre for Food Science, 7 International Business Park, Singapore 609919