Job Description

What the role is:The jobholder will assume a pivotal role within our physics & engineering team, championing and actively participating in cutting-edge research in multiple scientific disciplines, with focus on optics, photonics, imaging, and spectroscopy, amongst others. Their responsibilities encompass design, conceptualisation, development and implementation of new methodologies and systems that transcend conventional frameworks and workflows in forensic science.What you will be working on:The scope of work includes the following: Research and Development (R&D) Responsibilities: \xe2\x80\xa2 Conduct horizon scanning to identify novel and applicable technologies/solutions, and develop game-changing or new capabilities (e.g. sensor development) for forensic investigations and intelligence, providing substantial support to Home Team Departments and allied agencies. \xe2\x80\xa2 Independently spearhead research initiatives, fostering expertise and instrumental capabilities, and validating new methods/approaches to support needs of Home Team Departments. \xe2\x80\xa2 Oversee, lead and manage life cycle of projects, encompassing every facet from concept initiation, design, and planning to execution, milestone-tracking, and effective communication across multiple teams. \xe2\x80\xa2 Nurture a profound understanding of forensic science, technologies and analytical instrumentation within and across domains, emerging as a subject matter expert in forensic physics & engineering, in particular in photonics, optical spectroscopy, and imaging. This goes beyond basic operation of equipment and following prescribed analytical workflows. \xe2\x80\xa2 Forge collaborations with both national and international stakeholders, contributing to the advancement of HTX\'s interests, and foster a robust network with pivotal stakeholders within Home Team Departments, as well as various departments and centres within HTX. \xe2\x80\xa2 Cultivate partnerships with forensic counterparts, academia, and industry peers on both local and global scales, driving the innovation of fresh methodologies, practices or products. \xe2\x80\xa2 Assume responsibility for any ethics submissions, including institutional review board applications, and drive corresponding communications. \xe2\x80\xa2 Lead and manage a compact team of researchers, offering guidance and direction to facilitate collective progress. Administrative, Quality Assurance and Workplace Safety Responsibilities: \xe2\x80\xa2 Undertake administrative and managerial responsibilities for laboratory operations (e.g. procurement, equipment maintenance, and inventory management) including strategic execution of procurement activities to ensure continual laboratory operations in full compliance with governing guidelines. \xe2\x80\xa2 Engage in laboratory quality assurance and workplace safety activities, ensuring rigorous adherence to established quality and safety standards. \xe2\x80\xa2 Perform agency\'s required activities including trials and training with internal stakeholders.What we are looking for:Requirements: \xe2\x80\xa2 BSc (Hons), MSc, or PhD in physics, applied physics, engineering, or other related disciplines. \xe2\x80\xa2 Minimum of five (5) years of relevant industry or research experience in photonics, optics, imaging, and/or spectroscopy. Candidate is expected to demonstrate a profound understanding of the theory behind spectroscopy and imaging techniques, and ability to contribute to the design and customisation of optical and spectroscopic systems. \xe2\x80\xa2 Hands-on experience in optics, imaging, and related analytical instrumentation (e.g. FT-IR, Raman, UV-vis spectroscopy, microscopy), going beyond basic operations of equipment and their application in analytical work, and preferably with knowledge in the design, assembly, and characterisation of optical systems. \xe2\x80\xa2 Knowledge/experience in data science and analytics, AI and machine learning will be advantageous. \xe2\x80\xa2 Experience with software such as those for optical design (e.g. Zemax), statistical analysis, coding and programming languages (e.g. R, Python, Matlab, finite elements) applied to physical sciences will be advantageous. \xe2\x80\xa2 Knowledge of research methodology, and practical experience in execution of scientific research projects in academia and/or industry. \xe2\x80\xa2 Enthusiasm for pioneering scientific innovations congruent with the Home Teams\' mission. \xe2\x80\xa2 Demonstrated prowess in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and an empirical problem-solving approach. \xe2\x80\xa2 Aptitude for establishing an international presence to bolster HTX\'s reputation, consistently seeking fresh networks and robust collaborations with fellow experts. \xe2\x80\xa2 Strong problem-solving acumen coupled with meticulous attention to detail with the capacity to perform under high-pressure scenarios with tight deadlines. \xe2\x80\xa2 Able to address operational exigencies beyond conventional office hours. \xe2\x80\xa2 Experience in leading a small team of researchers will be advantageous. All new appointees will be appointed on a two-year contract in the first instance. We wish to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified within 4 week upon closing of the advertisement. As part of the shortlisting process for this role, please also attach your cover letter together with your CV.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.

Home Team Science and Technology Agency