Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Research Associate (Geophysics/ Geotechnical Engineering)
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Research Associate will support research in geophysics and geotechnical engineering, potentially involving ground investigation, geophysical surveys, laboratory testing, data interpretation, numerical modelling and technical reporting. Applicants are generally expected to hold a relevant degree, preferably a master's or PhD, in geophysics, geotechnical or civil engineering, engineering geology, or a related discipline. Experience with field or laboratory methods, research software, programming, data analysis and scientific writing would be valuable. The candidate should be able to work independently and collaboratively, manage research tasks carefully, communicate findings clearly, and contribute to publications, project reports and presentations. Knowledge of soil and rock mechanics, seismic methods or underground infrastructure would be advantageous.
Can I work in Singapore?
Never pay anyone for a visa or a job offer. A real employer pays the permit costs and never asks you for money.
How it works
How it works: Employment Pass: SGD 5,600+ a month at 23 (6,000 from January 2027), more with age, plus 40 COMPASS points; a degree from a top-tier university scores 20 of them.
Before you apply: Schools want a degree and often a teaching qualification, and some places license teachers before you can teach: schools maintained by councils in England, and schools in Hong Kong, New Zealand and Thailand. Ask which licence your post needs.
Watch for: The post is usually advertised to locals for 14 days first; teacher aides and infant caregivers in licensed childcare centres are on the Work Permit list for South Asians and Filipinos since September 2026.
Official source: Ministry of Manpower: COMPASS points framework. Checked November 2026.
What the job usually comes with in Singapore
Usual for Education jobs in Singapore, varies by employer. Checked November 2026.
| Housing | Not usual; senior expats may get an allowance; Work Permit staff: employer must ensure proper housing (by law) |
|---|---|
| Relocation | Work Permit staff: employer pays levy, bond and insurance (by law); relocation help is an expat perk |
| Flights | Work Permit staff: flight home paid by the employer (by law); others only if the offer says so |
| Contract | Work Permit up to 2 years; S Pass and Employment Pass up to 2, then 3; notice 1 day to 4 weeks by default |
| Leave | 7 to 14 days (by law; many get more); 11 public holidays; 14 days' sick leave, 60 in hospital |
| Income tax | 0% up to SGD 20,000 a year, then 2% to 24% (about 3% at SGD 60,000); resident rates on a 1-year pass |
| Health cover | Employer must insure Work Permit and S Pass staff, SGD 60,000 a year (by law); Employment Pass: company plan |
Senior staff often get more than line staff, for example a single room or a yearly home flight. Ask the employer what the job includes before you accept.
Guidance, not legal advice. Rules change; your employer confirms the details for your case.
About Nanyang Technological University
Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore) is a major research-intensive university located in the western part of Singapore. It is recognised internationally for work in engineering, science, technology, sustainability, business and interdisciplinary research. NTU brings together academic schools, research institutes, laboratories and industry partners to address challenges such as urban development, climate resilience, advanced materials and digital transformation. The university’s College of Engineering is particularly well known for applied research and collaboration with government and industry. Employees typically work in a multicultural academic environment with opportunities to support funded research projects, publish results, attend conferences and collaborate with researchers from Singapore and overseas. NTU’s campus includes teaching facilities, laboratories, student residences, green spaces and extensive research infrastructure.