Job Description

The National Institute of Education invites suitable applications for the position of Research Fellow on a 12-month contract at the Humanities and Social Studies Education Department.
Project Title: Projecting Urban Heatwaves and Building Resilience in Singapore and Southeast Asia [NEA 13/24 WJY]
Project Introduction:
This research aims to enhance food security in Southeast Asia (SEA) by fostering a comprehensive understanding and providing evidence for decision-making support regarding the impact of climate-driven natural hazards on local agricultural productivity.
The study begins with the construction of a detailed historical reanalysis dataset, capturing intricate details of major natural hazards such as floods, heatwaves, and wildfires in Southeast Asia. This dataset serves as a foundational resource, providing valuable insights into the historical occurrences and patterns of these hazards in the region. It supports evidence-based decision-making by identifying vulnerability hotspots, assessing agricultural impacts, and guiding policies to enhance regional resilience to climate-driven natural hazards.
Subsequent efforts focus on employing a physics-informed machine-learning model, tailored to accurately quantify the impact of various natural hazards on local food production. By utilizing historical data and advanced modelling techniques, this facet of the research aims to furnish nuanced insights into the specific risks each hazard poses to crop yields (with a focus on rice and vegetables) in different regions.
The research further introduces an innovative pseudo-global warming (PGW) modelling framework, anticipating the future manifestation of historical natural hazards under varying climate change scenarios. The subsequent quantification of these hazards' impact on local food production, utilizing the established machine-learning model, positions the research as a forward-looking effort with substantial potential for aiding in the development of strategies and policies that enhance climate resilience in Southeast Asia's agriculture. By combining historical analysis, machine learning, and innovative modelling, this research seeks to provide stakeholders with essential knowledge for proactive decision-making amid the challenges posed by natural hazards and climate change.
While the project will help Singapore identify new regional agricultural vulnerabilities and pivot between supply sources and ensure a more resilient and diversified food supply, influencing other governments to prepare for those vulnerabilities can be challenging for Singapore as a foreign entity. However, the involvement of regional actors--such as research institutions, agricultural organizations, and insurance companies--may play a key role in influencing their respective governments' agricultural practices.
Requirements:Ph.D. in Remote Sensing, Agricultural Science, Computer Science, Atmospheric Science or a related field. Proven experience in high-resolution model development, implementation and application. Strong experience with physical-based and machine learning methods in atmospheric science. Proficiency in Linux-based high-performance computing systems, GPU-based programming and prevailing AI tools. Experience in urban climate studies, specifically the urban boundary layer, heat island effects, air pollution, and building energy consumption. Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, R, IDL or MATLAB. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities:Develop a high-resolution, remote sensing-based agricultural inventory for Southeast Asia, capturing both spatial and temporal variability. Establish an observational data archive that integrates major types of weather and climate extremes affecting agricultural yields. Analyze model output, perform statistical analysis and provide interpretation and recommendations. Collaborate with cross-functional government agencies and research teams to collect and analyze atmospheric and climatological data. Provide scientific input and support to other ongoing projects. Publish scientific papers and present at relevant conferences. Any other administrative duties as assigned by Principal Investigators

Application
Applicants (external and internal) will 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.
Hiring Institution: NIE