Head, Research Unit, Heritage Institutions

[What the role is]

The National Heritage Board (NHB) is responsible for preserving and promoting Singapore’s cultural heritage. The Heritage Institutions division includes Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (SYSNMH), Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) and Indian Heritage Centre (IHC), focused on safeguarding and sharing the stories of Singapore’s diverse communities.

You will lead the Research Unit (RU) for the Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) and Indian Heritage Centre (IHC). This unit will strengthen research capacity, support exhibitions, education, and public programmes, and ensure long-term, cultural and community-driven heritage documentation. The role is central to creating research outputs that support MHC and IHC's goals and enrich public understanding of Singapore Malay and Indian heritage.

[What you will be working on]

You will report to the Director of Heritage Institutions and manage the research agenda for both MHC and IHC. You will lead a team, advised by a panel, and manage research projects, ensure high academic standards, and align research with institutional programmes. Your work will involve guiding research teams, collaborating with external stakeholders, and ensuring that findings contribute to exhibitions, education, and outreach.

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Develop, implement, and periodically review a comprehensive research strategy for MHC and IHC that aligns with institutional programmes and NHB’s broader organisational goals.
• Ensure that the research agenda prioritises both in-depth exploration and the effective dissemination of Singapore Malay and Indian heritage narratives.
• Oversee and refine research methodologies to ensure that all outputs maintain high academic rigour, adhere to ethical practices and include innovative, community-driven approaches.
• Facilitate collaboration between MHC and IHC, ensuring that research activities are mutually reinforcing.
• Integrate research insights into exhibitions, public programmes, educational initiatives and digital content through clearly defined frameworks and shared calendars.
• Strategically manage projects and manpower to maximise impact on both centres.
• Implement monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track project milestones, resource utilisation and ensure that objectives are met in a timely manner.
• Engage with academic, community, and cultural stakeholders to build enduring partnerships that enhance the quality, diversity, and relevance of research
• Develop and lead mentorship programmes to build capacity among junior researchers and foster community-based research initiatives.
• Ensure that research findings are effectively translated into tangible outputs such as exhibitions, publications, digital archives, and public events.
• Champion initiatives to widen accessibility, ensuring that complex research insights are communicated clearly to diverse audiences.

[What we are looking for]

• Thinking Clearly and Making Sound Judgements

Demonstrates sound judgement in setting research priorities and making well-reasoned decisions. Balances academic rigor, feasibility, and organisational goals

• Serving with Heart, Commitment and Purpose

Leads with a strong sense of public service, demonstrating care, integrity, and commitment to heritage, especially for under-documented or sensitive histories.

• Research Excellence & Innovation

Expertise in heritage research methodologies, including community-driven approaches. Continuously seeks innovative practices, ensuring research aligns with strategic priorities

• Stakeholder Management & Collaboration

Builds effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Ensures research reflects diverse perspectives and supports broader institutional goals

Work Experiences and Knowledge

• At least ten years of relevant experience in heritage research or cultural history, with at least five years in a leadership role
• In-depth knowledge of research methodologies, preferably in intangible cultural heritage and community-driven research
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and communication skills, with experience fostering collaboration across teams and with external partners

Other Traits

• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Comfortable with fluctuating priorities and tight deadlines
• Passionate about preserving and sharing cultural heritage, with an understanding of Singapore’s diverse communities