Job Description

The Department of Geography, National University of Singapore (NUS), invites applications for the position of Postdoctoral Fellow. The successful applicant is expected to commence duties at NUS in August/September 2021, or as soon as possible thereafter.

This position is connected to a research project titled, “Ageing and Social Networks: Mapping the Life-worlds of Older Singaporeans”. The research focuses on the social and geographical characteristics of older adults’ social networks. The research team will combine Social Network Analysis with Qualitative Research and Geographic Information Science (GIS), thus blending large scale numerical survey data with deep, targeted qualitative research that is then mapped to real spaces. The project will study two neighbourhoods in Singapore, looking at how older adults’ networks of social care are shaped by their surroundings, as well as extending beyond.

The project is funded through a large grant awarded by the Social Science Research Council (SSRC). The project team consists of Principal Investigator Associate Professor Elaine Ho (Department of Geography), and Co-PIs Associate Professors Vincent Chua and Feng Chen-Chieh (Department of Sociology and Department of Geography respectively).

Scope and responsibilities

The Postdoctoral Fellow will collaborate with the Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-PIs to collect and analyse the empirical data in preparation for publication and dissemination. This position primarily focuses on quantitative analyses and mapping, but the successful applicant will be expected to work with the qualitative researchers as well.

Qualifications

Applicants are expected to hold a PhD in the Social Sciences. The degree should be conferred by the time he/she commences work.

Competencies

• Skills in quantitative analyses and Geographic Information Science (GIS) techniques (e.g. ArcGIS); knowledge of Python will be an advantage
• Research experience on topics to do with ageing or social networks (e.g. Social Network Analysis) will be an advantage
• Willingness to learn about and work with researchers using qualitative methods; prior experience of working with mixed methods will be an advantage
• Excellent writing and strong communication skills in English, including an ability to present research in both academic and non-academic venues 
• A strong affinity to publish
• Curiosity and passion to explore new concepts, methods and technologies, and capable of identifying and quickly learning the most suitable tools for the research on the go
• A good team player and the ability to multitask effectively

More Information

Informal enquiries may be made to Associate Prof. Elaine Ho (elaine.ho@nus.edu.sg). Please include a covering letter, full CV and 4 letters of recommendation (one of the letter has to be from your PhD supervisor) in your application.