Senior Forensic Scientist

What the role is:

The jobholder will play a key role in our biology team to lead our proteomic workflows in areas of human identification and other forensic-related research. He/she should be well-versed in sample preparation of proteomic samples for analysis, multiple quantitative approaches for comparative proteomics, the study of post-translational modifications, as well as ensuring the production of high-quality proteomics data. He/she is also expected to plan, design and assist in developing new technologies for sample preparation and proteomic analysis and interpretation of forensic biological samples. Besides proteomics, he/she is also expected to participate in research projects involving genomics or other areas related to forensic biology.

What you will be working on:

R&D
• Horizon scanning to identify novel and applicable technologies to develop game-changing or new capabilities for forensic investigations and intelligence to support Home Team Departments (HTDs) and other agencies
• Independently conduct research, develop knowledge base & instrumental capabilities, and validate new forensic methods to support HTDs' investigative needs
• Oversee, lead and manage life cycle of project's needs & idea analysis, concept, design, planning, budget, approval, procurement, execution, tracking milestones, implementation and communication
• Develop competencies and maintain currency in forensic science, technologies and analytical instrumentation within and across domains as a subject matter expert in proteomics
• Engage and work with national and international stakeholders to advance HTX's interests
• Establish a strong network with key stakeholders in the HTDs, and various departments in HTX
• Collaborate with forensic counterparts, industry and academia, both locally and internationally to develop, innovate new methodologies, practices or products
• Responsible for any ethics submission (institutional review board and/or equivalent) and communication
• Mentor junior researchersAdministrative, quality assurance and workplace safety duties
• Perform laboratory administrative and managerial responsibilities in the upkeep of laboratory operations (e.g., procurement, lab and equipment maintenance, inventory). For example, plan and participate in procurement activities to ensure continual operations of laboratory in full compliance with governance
• Commit and participate in laboratory quality assurance and workplace safety (WSHS) activities to ensure compliance with quality and safety requirements
• Perform the agency's required activities such as trials and/or training with internal stakeholders

What we are looking for:

• Minimally Post-Graduate Degree in biological/biomedical sciences, with experience in mass spectrometry, proteomics, protein sciences, biochemistry or related life science disciplines.
• Minimum of five (5) to eight (8) years of relevant industry or research experience
• Well versed in Mass Spectrometry (MS) acquisition techniques of proteomic MS data (e.g. Label-Free Quantification (LFQ), DDA, DIA, targeted and untargeted proteomics, etc.)
• Experienced in preparing samples for proteomic analysis (e.g. trypsin fragmentation, peptide/protein enrichment, etc.)
• Well versed in analysis of proteomic data sets using commercially available software (e.g., MaxQuant, Proteome Discoverer, etc.)
• Knowledge of research methodology, and practical experience in execution of scientific research projects in academia and/or industry
• Knowledge/experience in Next gen sequencing technology, genomics, bioinformatics and/or computational biology would be advantageous
• Experience with single-cell proteomics would be advantageous
• Experience in leading a small team of researchers will be an advantage
• Passionate in the pursuit of scientific innovations that are aligned with the Home Teams' mission
• Committed, curious, self-motivated, self-starter, high initiative, forward-looking and fosters a climate of experimentation within the team
• Strong critical thinking, analytical & reasoning skills, applies a logical methodical and hands-on approach
• Ability to work collaboratively to achieve outcomes
• Good communicator (oral and written) with strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to operate on the international stage to build up HTX's reputation and constantly seek new networks and active collaborations with other experts
• Honesty, integrity, tenacity, including a positive attitude, empathy, gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility
• Good problem-solving skills with attention to details
• Ability to work under extreme pressure with tight deadlines
• Able to respond to operational needs outside office hours, as and when required

All new hires are appointed on a two-year contract in the first instance and will be assessed and considered for permanent tenure over time, based on performance. As part of the shortlisting process for this role, you may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment. All applicants will be updated on the status of their applications within 4 weeks upon closing of the advertisement.

About Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX)

HTX is the world's first Science and Technology agency that integrates a diverse range of scientific and engineering capabilities to innovate and deliver transformative and operationally-ready solutions for homeland security. As a statutory board of the Ministry of Home Affairs and integral to the Home Team, HTX works at the forefront of science and technology to empower Singapore's frontline of security. Our shared mission is to amplify, augment and accelerate the Home Team's advantage and secure Singapore as the safest place on planet earth.