Research Associate

Research Associates support Principal Investigators in specific research areas, especially in Sustainability, focusing on Environmental Sciences and related fields to advance knowledge and solutions.

Research Associate Job Description

Conduct literature reviews, data collection, and analysis of existing materials related to the project.

Support researchers in conducting fieldwork, data collection, and data analysis.

Assist in preparing research manuscripts mainly consisting of writing the methodology or results based on collected data.

Provide general administrative support on research-related matters by organising and managing files, scheduling meetings and ensuring deadlines are met.

Manage internal and external communications via consistent maintenance of the organisation’s website and social media.

Note

Research Associates don’t only work in laboratories or behind a desk. They also have to conduct fieldwork – think trekking through forests, climbing hills, and exploring nearby islands!

What you should know about Research Associate jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

As Research Associates, you’ll usually conduct field research at odd hours of the day depending on the nature of your research subject.

Key Advice

Research in Sustainability or Environmental Science requires the use of programming. You will need good Mathematics skills for automated data processing.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Minimally, a degree in Environmental Sciences or any other relevant discipline is required.

Experience in research, either in laboratories or external fieldwork, is preferred.

Basic knowledge of the research landscape in the field of Environmental Sciences is required.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Research Associate career path in Singapore

Hard Skills

Programming Languages, e.g. R, Python

Knows programming languages such as R and Python for research projects.

Geographic Information System (GIS) Software

Use software like BatchGIS to incorporate Geospatial analysis into projects.

Research Project Management

Manages research projects, overseeing timelines, resources, and deliverables for project execution.

Soft Skills

Written and Verbal Communication Skills

Can communicate for effective dissemination of research findings.

Attention to Detail

Has a keen eye for detail, ensuring precision in data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Ability to Accept Feedback

Embraces feedback and constructive criticism for continuous refinement of research methodologies.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Why do Research Associates have administrative tasks alongside their research projects?

A Research Associate’s main role is to assist the Principal Investigator (PI) they are attached to. Besides research work, a Research Associate may also have to book transport to fieldwork sites, fill out documents to apply for grants, and update their PI’s research progress on the research organisation’s website.
Do Research Associates work on multiple research projects at once?

Research Associates do work on multiple research projects at the same time. This is because they are not always attached to one Principal Investigator. As such, many Research Associates have stated that being well-organised and having good time management skills are very important in this career, as they need to be able to switch between different tasks for multiple projects.
Are Research Associates and Research Assistants the same job?

Research Associates primarily provide advice, coordinate research activities and ensure compliance with safety protocols. In contrast, a Research Assistant mainly assists with outdoor research, handles paperwork and manages logistics.
What role do Research Associates in sustainability play in advancing sustainable business practices?

Research Associates in sustainability play a key role in advancing sustainable business practices by analysing the environmental impact of business operations, identifying opportunities for resource efficiency, and developing strategies for sustainable supply chain management.
How do Research Associates handle a disagreement with Lead Researchers?

While Research Associates should share their opinions with the Lead Researcher. The Lead Researcher's decisions hold precedence as they are the Principle Investigator of the research