Research Associate/Assistant (Cultural Policy and Evidence Lab), Research Division (2-year contract)

The NAFA Cultural Policy and Evidence Lab is a newly-formed and first-of-its-kind cultural policy research centre, dedicated to supporting resilient, regenerative and equitable arts and creative industries in Singapore and Southeast Asia through evidence-based and situated insights. We are seeking a Research Associate/Assistant with strong research and analytical skills to join its growing interdisciplinary team working at the intersection of cultural policy analysis and data-driven decision-making.

The successful applicant will assist in delivering a longitudinal cultural policy research project through meticulous fieldwork, high-quality data management, and systematic administrative coordination. The role also involves coordination and operational support for Lab activities, including project administration and undertaking ad hoc tasks essential to project delivery. The position is best suited for candidates who enjoy working with real-world data and translating evidence-based insights into planning, design and policy applications.

• Support the Principal Investigator with project coordination and grant management.
• Contribute to the building, compiling and maintaining of live databases.
• Assist with empirical research activities, including the conduct, transcription, coding and analysis of data from interviews, surveys and ethnographic fieldwork into high-quality published reports.
• Assist with data management and liaise with the project team members or external parties on such matters.
• Support data analysis across quantitative and qualitative components.
• Support the organisation of lectures, workshops, roundtables and seminars.
• Support the coordination of cross-functional project teams, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and grant priorities.

• Applicants are expected to hold at least a Second Class Honours (Upper Division) or an equivalent honours degree, or a Master’s degree in the Social Sciences and Humanities, ideally in the field of arts management, cultural economics, cultural studies, sociology or public policy.
• Interest in the arts, especially in terms of cultural policy and the conditions of cultural production is essential. Deep, situated knowledge of the local arts ecology would be advantageous.
• Skills in qualitative or quantitative research methods and in using analysis software, or a strong interest in learning them. Knowledge of statistical software would be an edge.
• Willingness to learn about, and work with researchers using mixed methods; prior experience of working with mixed methods would be an advantage.
• Curiosity and passion to explore new concepts, methods and technologies, and capable of identifying and quickly learning the most suitable methodologies and tools for the research.
• Excellent analytical and drafting skills, with proven ability to prepare clear and concise reports and working documents.
• Strong organisational and coordination skills, with attention to detail and adherence to deadlines.
• Proven ability to establish, maintain and strengthen effective and professional working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental partners.
• High level of discretion, tact and diplomacy, with demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively both independently and within a diverse team.
• Good IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and standard office software.
• A good team player, and the ability to multitask effectively.

We invite candidates to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research statement and two samples of research work published in English. Apart from an interview, shortlisted candidates will also be expected to take a written test in person.