Senior/Lead Public Health Officer

[What the role is]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. As part of Singapore’s National Strategic Action Plan (NSAP) on AMR, this role sits at the heart of efforts to build a robust national AMR research agenda. You will work to deepen our understanding of AMR – its emergence, spread, drivers and risk factors – and translate research evidence into actional insights that inform policy across the pillars of the NSAP.

You will be working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment that would require the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders at the same time.

The Candidate will assist in building the national AMR research agenda through

(a) Regular monitoring the local research landscape to track research on antimicrobial resistance and appropriate antimicrobial use;

(b) Identifying priority research needs that support the development of local policies and practices to mitigate the threat of AMR;

(c) Exploring funding platforms and administering programmes to support such research.

[What you will be working on]

Research and Policy

• Map and monitor the local AMR research landscape on a regular basis to track progression in AMR research and developments.
• Identify priority research needs that support the development of local policies and practices to mitigate AMR, in partnership with relevant stakeholders.
• Explore funding platforms and opportunities, and assist with the implementation and administration of programmes that support AMR research.
• Engage and partner local and international scientific community to advance the agenda for AMR research.
• Research priority AMR issues as they arise on an ad-hoc basis, and communicate findings and information clearly to stakeholders.

Secretariat and Administrative Duties

• Facilitate and support the work of committees, including providing administrative support for meetings, taking minutes and preparing meeting-related materials.
• Monitor, collect, collate and report progress of work plan implementation.
• Undertake administrative tasks as needed to support division’s operations, including but not limited to procurement, finance, records management.

Please note that secretariat and administrative duties form a meaningful part of this role alongside the research and policy work.

[What we are looking for]

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Education

• A tertiary education in a relevant discipline is required. A background in biomedical sciences, microbiology, epidemiology, public health or a related field is highly desirable

Experience

• At least 5 years of relevant working experience. Experience in research, horizon scanning, evidence synthesis or policy work is an advantage.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential. The role routinely involves giving presentations, writing reports, policy briefs and other forms of business writing. Candidates may be required to demonstrate proficiency in these skills during the selection process.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills are essential. Candidates should be able to conduct systematic literature searches of scientific publications, synthesise evidence, and translate scientific information clearly for a general audience.
• Experience in engaging and managing relationships with diverse stakeholders across public and private sectors.

Other qualities

• Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrate proactiveness
• Exhibit the ability to think and work independently
• Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills

Key competencies required

• Thinking Clearing and Making Sound Judgements – Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities to support the crafting of sound policy recommendations, with an appreciation of timelines, operating context and ground realities
• Learning and Putting Skills into Action – The drive and curiosity to learn and apply new skills, knowledge and ways of working
• Improving and Innovating – A commitment to seeking continual improvements and the ability to innovate and experiment while managing associated risks.
• Working Effectively with Stakeholders – The ability to mobilise and rally partners and stakeholders towards a collective purpose

As part of the shortlisting process for this role, candidate may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment.