Research Assistant (Paleoseismology & Neotectonics)/ (Levelling Data Investigation)

Join Our Multidisciplinary Team at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

These cluster hires will contribute to an integrated programme spanning fault assessment, seismic and geodetic monitoring, earthquake physics, ground-motion modelling, site response, exposure and vulnerability, and probabilistic seismic hazard and risk assessment, working to strengthen Singapore’s national capabilities. New hires will join a multidisciplinary research team spanning Nanyang Technological University’s Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS), Asian School of the Environment (ASE), and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE). For more information, please visit: https://earthobservatory.sg, https://ntu.edu.sg/ase, and https://ntu.edu.sg/cee.

We are looking to fill a total of 5 Research Assistant positions:

(1–4) Research Assistant (Paleoseismology & Neotectonics)

We are looking for a Research Assistant to support geological field, laboratory, and analytical activities associated with paleoseismic trench investigations. The role will focus on trench preparation and documentation, surveying, sample collection and processing, sedimentological analysis, data management, and other technical support needed to complete rigorous investigations of past fault movement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse existing geological data and digital terrain models to refine fault locations ahead of trenching
• Assist with preliminary geophysical field investigations at candidate trench sites
• Support paleoseismic field investigations, including trench excavation, wall cleaning, gridding, surveying, field documentation, and site permitting and logistics
• Assist experienced trench loggers with trench-wall logging and photographic documentation
• Assist with sedimentological and stratigraphic observations and preliminary data analysis
• Collect, label, and catalogue geological samples in the field for subsequent laboratory analysis and dating
• Process samples and prepare materials for geochronological dating and sedimentological analysis
• Support data management, including field records, photographs, and sample registers
• Mentor undergraduate interns who will be contributing mostly to desk-based analysis of geological data

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in geology, geoscience, Earth science, geotechnical engineering, or a related field
• Basic knowledge of geology, sedimentology, stratigraphy, and geomorphology, with considerable prior geological field experience strongly preferred
• Familiarity with field documentation practice, including note keeping, photography, and sample labelling
• Proficiency with relevant mapping, drafting, GIS, and/or structure-from-motion software is strongly preferred
• Good written and oral communication skills, including the ability to contribute to technical reports for review by external experts
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team under demanding field conditions and strict timelines
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with meticulous attention to field documentation
• Careful and systematic approach to field documentation, sample handling, and data management, with a demonstrated ability to follow documentation protocols consistently
• Willingness and ability to perform demanding physical fieldwork, including extended periods in trenches in warm tropical regions, and to travel for fieldwork in the region.
• Entry-level candidates are welcome to apply where they can demonstrate the required technical background and relevant experience

(5) Research Assistant (Levelling Data Investigation)

We are looking for a Research Assistant to join EOS. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Asst Prof Lujia FENG and focus on the analysis of levelling data for tectonic deformation studies. The primary purpose of this position is to conduct high-quality research using historical and contemporary levelling observations to quantify crustal deformation, investigate long-term tectonic processes, and improve our understanding of earthquake hazards. The RA will support the compilation, digitization, analysis, and interpretation of geodetic datasets and contribute to the development of integrated geodetic models of deformation. The RA is also expected to contribute actively to other research activities within EOS.

Key Responsibilities:

• Compile, review, and evaluate levelling datasets to assess their suitability for constraining long-term vertical crustal deformation
• Digitize, quality control, analyze, and interpret historical levelling records
• Contribute to the integration of levelling, InSAR, and GNSS observations for the development of deformation fields, strain-rate maps, and geodetic models
• Assist with data management, documentation, and the preparation of technical reports
• Participate actively in research meetings, project discussions, and progress reporting
• Support other research activities within EOS as required

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Earth science, Geophysics, Geodesy or a closely related field
• Proficiency in computational methods, with experience in programming using MATLAB, and/or Python
• Meticulous with a keen eye for detail and high level of accuracy
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively, with a strong sense of team spirit
• Entry level candidates are welcome to apply

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

• A current curriculum vitae (CV)
• A succinct cover letter (not more than one page) detailing research interests and relevant experience
• The name and contact information for 2–3 references; institutional e-mail addresses are preferred, but other addresses will be accepted with suitable explanation
• If the candidate has relevant publications, they may include web links (URLs) in the CV or as an annex to the cover letter (this will not count toward the one-page limit)

We seek a diverse and inclusive workforce and are committed to equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from all and recruit on the basis of merit, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, marital status and family responsibilities, or disability.

We regret to inform you that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.