Research Fellow

The National Institute of Education invites suitable applications for the position of Research Fellow on a 24-month contract (renewable) at the Office for Research.

Project Title: Arts for Cultivating Creativity, Emotional and Social outcomes (ACES) Project: Understanding and Optimising the Effects of Arts-based Experiences and Programmes on Creativity and Socio-Emotional Outcomes of Adolescents

Project Introduction: This research program was conceived to generate empirical insights that can be used to address two key issues that are of critical importance in Singapore: (1) realizing creative potential and (2) promoting mental health, particularly of the youth. To address these issues, the research program will adopt a multiphase mixed-method approach to examine how arts-based experiences and programmes can influence the creativity and socio-emotional outcomes of adolescents. The  overarching goal of the research program is to produce a robust evidence base that can be used as a guide for the development and implementation of  arts-based programmes and to optimise the benefits from engaging in artistic experiences.

The full project comprises four phases and involves eight sub-studies. It aims to investigate how arts-based experiences influence creativity and socio-emotional outcomes in Singapore's adolescents, particularly focusing on long-term effects and impacts on different student profiles including those who are socially at-risk. The specific research objectives of the study are the following:

• Conduct a literature review on existing studies of effect of arts-based programs on adolescents' creativity and socio-emotional outcomes;
• Understand existing art experiences of adolescents and creative professionals;
• Examine the effects of arts-based programs on cognitive, creativity and socio-emotional outcomes (i.e., behavioral and neural) of adolescents in Singapore;
• Understand the factors that influence how arts-based programmes can benefit adolescents;
• Examine the relationship between creativity and socio-emotional development during adolescence,
• Translate the design principles of effective arts-based programmes into practice; and
• Facilitate and examine the process of diffusing and translating the design principles of effective arts-based programmes into practice.

We are seeking applicants with a PhD and demonstrated expertise in data collection (in laboratory and/or school settings), advanced data analysis (e.g., EEG preprocessing and analysis methods), and dissemination of research findings through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. The position is offered on a 24-month contract, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

Requirements:

• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g. Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroscience, Educational Neuroscience)
• At least 2 years of experience in doing research using electroencephalography (EEG)
• Demonstrated proficiency in quantitative data processing (e.g., EEG preprocessing) and advanced analysis (including EEG data and statistical methods) using R, Python, and/or MATLAB.
• Proficient in academic writing
• Good organizational and documentation skills and able to work within tight deadlines
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• A strong leader and team player who is also able to work independently and flexibly in a large team

Preferred:

• Experience in working with teachers and students in Singapore schools
• Appreciation of and/or background in the arts (e.g., music and dance)
• Experience in doing longitudinal data analysis
• With evidence of proficiency in academic writing, such as published journal papers and/or book chapters

Responsibilities:

• Lead the data collection and analysis
• Manage the research project
• Assist in the development and implementation and lead the evaluation of arts-based programmes
• Conduct EEG data pre-processing and  analysis, such as ERP, frequency and/or time-frequency and connectivity analysis. Experience in statistical modelling is also desirable.Contribute to the writing of research papers and reports
• Manage research data
• Manage the research team
• Contribute to the preparation of presentations and other administrative duties
• Perform other tasks assigned by the project investigators

Application

Applicants (external and internal) may apply via Workday. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Closing Date

Closing date for advertisements will be set to 14 calendar days from date of posting.