The National University of Singapore has a vacancy for a Research Assistant within the Department of Biological Sciences
JOB DESCRIPTION
Looking for a full-time research assistant (RA) for a project investigating the urban ecology of bats in Singapore and the ecosystem services they provide (seed dispersal, pollination, consumption of insect pests). The RA will assist in collecting data in the field, labwork, and other tasks, under supervision.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Fieldwork (including at night) at various sites in Singapore. This work will involve:
• surveying bats (acoustic monitoring, i.e., bat detectors; capturing bats in mist nets and harp
traps),
• handling and processing bats to collect physiological and other data,
• collecting fecal samples for dietary analysis,
• radio telemetry to find daytime roost locations and estimate nightly home ranges,
• collecting nocturnal insects and conducting vegetation measurements in field sites.
2. Lab and analytical work, which will involve:
• examining diet (by fecal analysis and microscopy)
• analysing acoustic data (to identify bats and quantify activity)
• identifying and quantifying captured insects (microscopy)
• home range analysis
3. Data entry, management and analysis
4. Assisting with project logistics, including but not limited to purchasing equipment and/or materials,
setting up study sites, and monitoring research progress.
5. Administrative work and tasks, including office-related work
6. Assist in supervising student projects
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Italicised items in bold are mandatory, others are ideal:
1. BSc degree in life sciences, ideally ecology or biology
2. Experience conducting ecological fieldwork, especially using mist nets and handling bats.
3. Experience collecting and dealing with full-spectrum acoustic data and with radio telemetry.
4. Ability to deal with shifting work schedules (i.e., some nighttime work)
5. Valid SG driver’s license or the ability to obtain one
6. Up-to-date rabies and hepatitis B vaccinations, or willingness to obtain both
7. Basic Microsoft Office skills, especially MS Word and Excel
8. Good interpersonal and communication skills, including proficiency in English
9. Experience with the statistical analysis of data
10. Experience with academic writing
This position is available for up to three years, with salary commensurate with qualifications and
experience. Conditions may be negotiable for exceptional applicants.
Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resumé/curriculum vitae, and the contact information
of three referees to both:
Prof Theodore Evans dbseta@nus.edu.sg
Dr Joanna Coleman dbscmj@nus.edu.sg
Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
