Laboratory Officer, DNA Database Lab (Synapse)

📍 Job Overview

• Job Title: Laboratory Officer, DNA Database Lab (Synapse)
• Company: Public Service Division
• Location: Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Category: Laboratory Science & Research
• Date Posted: 2025-08-01

🚀 Role Summary

• Conduct DNA profiling of reference samples for criminal investigation under the supervision of scientists.
• Assist in developing and validating new technologies and methods in the DNA profiling lab.
• Contribute to laboratory administrative duties, including equipment maintenance, inventory, and reagent preparation.
• Ensure laboratory quality assurance by checking expiry dates and conducting basic performance tests.
• Collaborate with the Biology Division of the Applied Sciences Group to advance DNA profiling techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in molecular biology and biochemistry, with a focus on DNA analysis. Familiarity with criminal investigation procedures and laboratory protocols is beneficial but not required, as training will be provided.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

• DNA Profiling: Perform DNA tests on reference samples using established protocols and equipment.
• Method Development: Assist scientists in developing and validating new DNA profiling techniques and methods.
• Laboratory Administration: Maintain laboratory equipment, manage inventory, purchase consumables, and prepare reagents and supplies.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure laboratory reagents and supplies are in good condition and conduct basic performance checks.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the Biology Division to stay updated on the latest DNA profiling techniques and contribute to research projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a high level of attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and in a team. Previous experience in a laboratory setting is preferred but not required, as training will be provided.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A bachelor's degree in Biology, Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, or a related field is required. A master's degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field is preferred but not required.

Experience: Previous laboratory experience is not required, but a successful completion of a supervised laboratory research project in biochemistry or molecular biology is essential.

Required Skills:

• Strong background in molecular biology and biochemistry, with a focus on DNA analysis.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and protocols (training will be provided).

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience in a laboratory setting or criminal investigation procedures.
• Knowledge of DNA profiling techniques and methods.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements (N/A for this role)

📝 Enhancement Note: This role does not require a web portfolio or project requirements, as it is focused on laboratory research and does not involve web development or design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this position is not provided. However, according to Glassdoor and Payscale, the average salary for a Laboratory Officer in Singapore is SGD 3,500 - 5,000 per month. This role may offer a competitive salary within this range, depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

Benefits: The Public Service Division offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Government pension scheme.
• Medical and dental benefits.
• Annual leave and sick leave entitlements.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Flexible work arrangements.

Working Hours: The standard working hours for this role are 40 hours per week, with flexible working hours and overtime as required. The laboratory operates on a shift basis, with 24/7 coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. The benefits package is subject to change and may vary depending on the candidate's employment terms and conditions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The Public Service Division operates within the government sector, focusing on public safety and criminal investigation. The DNA Profiling Lab is part of the Biology Division of the Applied Sciences Group, which is responsible for advancing forensic science and DNA profiling techniques.

Company Size: The Public Service Division employs over 100,000 staff across various agencies and departments. The DNA Profiling Lab is a small team consisting of scientists, laboratory officers, and support staff.

Founded: The Public Service Division was established in 1819, making it one of the oldest government agencies in Singapore. The DNA Profiling Lab was established in 2010 to enhance the capabilities of the Singapore Police Force in solving crimes through DNA evidence.

Team Structure:

• The DNA Profiling Lab is led by a team of experienced scientists, who supervise laboratory officers and support staff.
• The laboratory operates on a shift basis, with 24/7 coverage to ensure timely processing of DNA samples.
• Laboratory officers work closely with scientists, police officers, and other stakeholders to ensure the efficient and effective processing of DNA samples.

Development Methodology:

• The DNA Profiling Lab follows a structured quality management system to ensure the accuracy and reliability of DNA test results.
• Laboratory officers are trained to follow established protocols and procedures to minimize errors and maximize efficiency.
• The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure accurate and timely DNA profiling.

Company Website: Public Service Division

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture of the Public Service Division is characterized by a strong commitment to public service, professionalism, and integrity. The DNA Profiling Lab operates within this culture, with a focus on accuracy, reliability, and timeliness in DNA profiling to support criminal investigation and public safety.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is not directly related to web technology, as it focuses on laboratory research and DNA profiling. However, laboratory officers may have the opportunity to contribute to web-based projects or systems within the DNA Profiling Lab or the Public Service Division.

Reporting Structure: Laboratory officers report directly to the scientists in charge of the DNA Profiling Lab. They may also work closely with police officers and other stakeholders to ensure the efficient processing of DNA samples.

Technical Impact: Laboratory officers play a crucial role in the DNA profiling process, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of DNA test results. Their work contributes to the successful resolution of criminal cases and the maintenance of public safety.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Growth: Laboratory officers may have the opportunity to contribute to research projects and the development of new DNA profiling techniques and methods. This can lead to professional development and career advancement within the laboratory or the Public Service Division.
• Leadership Growth: With experience and demonstrated leadership skills, laboratory officers may have the opportunity to take on supervisory or management roles within the laboratory or the Public Service Division.

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth in this role is primarily focused on technical development and leadership within the laboratory or the Public Service Division. Opportunities for web technology-focused growth may be limited, as the role is not directly related to web development or design.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The DNA Profiling Lab is a dedicated laboratory space within the Synapse Building, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology for DNA profiling.

Office Location(s): The DNA Profiling Lab is located within the Synapse Building, which is a government building in Singapore. The laboratory is accessible to staff and authorized visitors only.

Workspace Context:

• Laboratory Equipment: The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for DNA profiling, including PCR machines, gel electrophoresis systems, and DNA sequencers.
• Collaborative Environment: Laboratory officers work closely with scientists, police officers, and other stakeholders to ensure the efficient processing of DNA samples.
• Shift Work: The laboratory operates on a shift basis, with 24/7 coverage to ensure timely processing of DNA samples.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours for this role are 40 hours per week, with flexible working hours and overtime as required. The laboratory operates on a shift basis, with 24/7 coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment of the DNA Profiling Lab is characterized by a strong focus on accuracy, reliability, and timeliness in DNA profiling. Laboratory officers work in a collaborative environment, with close interaction with scientists, police officers, and other stakeholders.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

• Application Review: The hiring manager will review applications and shortlist candidates based on their qualifications and experience.
• Phone or Video Screen: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a phone or video screen to assess their communication skills and fit for the role.
• Laboratory Tour and Technical Assessment: Candidates will be invited to the DNA Profiling Lab for a tour and a technical assessment, which may include a practical exercise or a case study.
• Final Interview: The final interview will be conducted by the hiring manager and may include additional stakeholders, such as scientists or police officers.

Portfolio Review Tips: (N/A for this role)

Technical Challenge Preparation: (N/A for this role)

ATS Keywords: (N/A for this role, as the role is not web technology-focused)

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and interview process for this role is focused on assessing the candidate's qualifications, experience, and fit for the laboratory environment. There are no web technology-related ATS keywords or technical challenges, as the role is not web technology-focused.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure (N/A for this role)

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is not related to web technology, and therefore, there is no technology stack or web infrastructure to consider.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values: (N/A for this role, as it is not web technology-focused)

Collaboration Style:

• Collaborative: Laboratory officers work closely with scientists, police officers, and other stakeholders to ensure the efficient processing of DNA samples.
• Structured: The DNA Profiling Lab follows a structured quality management system to ensure the accuracy and reliability of DNA test results.
• Continuous Learning: Laboratory officers are encouraged to stay updated on the latest DNA profiling techniques and contribute to research projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture of the DNA Profiling Lab is characterized by a strong focus on collaboration, structure, and continuous learning. Laboratory officers work closely with scientists, police officers, and other stakeholders to ensure the efficient processing of DNA samples and the maintenance of public safety.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

• Accuracy and Reliability: Laboratory officers must ensure the accuracy and reliability of DNA test results to support criminal investigation and public safety.
• Time-Sensitive: DNA samples must be processed in a timely manner to support criminal investigation and public safety.
• Continuous Learning: Laboratory officers must stay updated on the latest DNA profiling techniques and contribute to research projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Training: Laboratory officers may have the opportunity to attend technical training courses or workshops to enhance their skills and knowledge in DNA profiling.
• Research Projects: Laboratory officers may have the opportunity to contribute to research projects and the development of new DNA profiling techniques and methods.
• Career Development: With experience and demonstrated leadership skills, laboratory officers may have the opportunity to take on supervisory or management roles within the laboratory or the Public Service Division.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technical challenges and learning opportunities for this role are focused on DNA profiling and laboratory research. There are no web technology-related challenges or opportunities, as the role is not web technology-focused.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

• DNA Profiling: Candidates may be asked questions about DNA profiling techniques, methods, and equipment.
• Laboratory Experience: Candidates may be asked questions about their previous laboratory experience, including their role, responsibilities, and achievements.
• Problem-Solving: Candidates may be asked to describe a challenging situation they faced in a laboratory setting and how they resolved it.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: Candidates may be asked why they are interested in the role and the DNA Profiling Lab.
• Adaptability: Candidates may be asked how they would adapt to working in a laboratory environment and handling sensitive DNA samples.
• Teamwork: Candidates may be asked how they would collaborate with scientists, police officers, and other stakeholders to ensure the efficient processing of DNA samples.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy: (N/A for this role)

📝 Enhancement Note: The technical and company-related interview questions for this role are focused on DNA profiling, laboratory experience, and adaptability. There are no web technology-related questions, as the role is not web technology-focused.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Laboratory Officer, DNA Database Lab (Synapse) position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided in the job listing.
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant laboratory experience, qualifications, and skills.
• Prepare for the phone or video screen, laboratory tour, and technical assessment by researching the DNA Profiling Lab and the Public Service Division.
• Prepare for the final interview by reflecting on your motivation for the role, your adaptability to the laboratory environment, and your ability to collaborate with scientists, police officers, and other stakeholders.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and laboratory research-focused assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.