Asia Research Institute (ARI)

The Asia Research Institute (ARI), National University of Singapore (NUS), invites applications for the full-time position of Postdoctoral/Research Fellow to work on an 18-month long research project titled, “Social Capital in Singapore: A Deep Dive into Social Mix and Social Mixing”. The position is available on a full-time basis for one year in the first instance, with possibility for renewal into the second year.

The successful applicant is expected to commence duties at NUS in November 2026, and no later than December 2026.

Project description

This study examines the role of social capital in Singapore, with a specific focus on class social mixing and its potential to strengthen Singaporean identity. In an era marked by heightened competition, socioeconomic inequality, fragmentation, and global uncertainty, understanding the sources and consequences of class-based interactions is crucial.

However, social mixing is inherently complex; it is not merely a matter of contact, but fundamentally entails overcoming deep-seated differences and entrenched socioeconomic hierarchies. The project will analyse two waves of survey data (2026 and 2027) tracking 3,000 Singapore citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents (SPRs), complemented by qualitative focus group discussions (FGDs) specifically designed to unpack the micro-level dynamics and interpersonal tensions of bridging class divides. The findings offer a nuanced framework for understanding how structured social integration can overcome class barriers and reinforce a shared, resilient national identity.

The successful applicant will be hosted in the ARI Migration and Mobilities Cluster and will work with Prof Elaine Ho (Co-Principal Investigator) and an interdisciplinary team of Investigators.

Job Description

The successful candidate will primarily participate in convening focus group discussions, analysis and writing. As this is a mixed-methods and interdisciplinary study, he/she will be expected to conduct research analyses with researchers from different disciplinary orientations too. He/she will also participate in research writing and dissemination related to the research project, for both academic and non-academic audiences.

He/she will have the opportunity to:

• Present research work at international and domestic conferences;
• Participate in joint authorship of publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals; and
• Be involved in organizing project meetings, workshops and seminars, applying for grant funding, and participating in current cluster projects.

Job Requirements

Applicants are expected to fulfil the following criteria:

• Hold a PhD degree (or awaiting conferment) in the field of Social Sciences and Humanities, preferably in Social Geography, Sociology, Anthropology or Migration Studies;
• Show demonstrable evidence of a research interest in the themes of the project;
• Strong qualitative research skills; experience of working with mixed methods will be an advantage;
• Demonstrate potential in developing a record of publication in high-impact peer-reviewed journals;
• Exhibit a high level of competence and flair in written and spoken communication and in academic writing;
• Possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team and with non-academic stakeholders.

Application Process

To apply for this position, please combine the following documents in 1 PDF and attach it under the CV column when submitting your application:

• Curriculum vitae
• A cover letter, of no more than 800 words, explaining the applicant’s past research experience and aptitude in relation to the research project
• Transcripts
• One writing sample (not exceeding 8000 words)

Interested candidates, please submit your application by 30 September 2026.

Only shortlisted applicants will be notified. Shortlisted applicants may be called for interview in-person/by zoom.