The National Institute of Education invites suitable applications for the position of Research Fellow on a 24-month contract at the Science of Learning in Education Centre (SoLEC).

Project Title: Active Learning STRategies for adult learners - The ALL STAR project

Project Introduction: Singapore’s ageing workforce faces increasing challenges in adapting to rapid technological disruption and the growing demand for lifelong learning. To address these issues, this project explores an innovative approach to adult education through Physically Active Learning (PAL), integrating purposeful, low-intensity movements into classroom teaching to enhance attention, engagement, and cognitive performance.

Grounded in the science of embodied cognition, the study aims to co-develop and evaluate PAL pedagogies tailored for Singapore’s adult learners. Adapted from the TransformUS!™ Higher Ed program (Deakin University), the intervention will be implemented in local Institutes of Higher Learning and tested for its impact on learning outcomes, knowledge retention, and neurobiological mechanisms such as working memory and interbrain synchrony.

The project brings together an interdisciplinary team from NIE/NTU, SUSS, and Deakin University, combining expertise in neuroscience, pedagogy, and adult education. Ultimately, it seeks to pioneer a new model of adult learning that enhances adaptability, cognitive health, and collaboration, equipping Singapore’s workforce to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Requirements:

• PhD in either Educational or Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychology (Educational or Cognitive), Exercise Science / Kinesiology / Human Movement Science or Learning Sciences / Education Research.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting experimental studies involving human participants.
• Strong track record in quantitative data analysis, preferably using software such as SPSS, R, MATLAB, or Python.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects, prepare manuscripts, and contribute to scholarly publications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience with neurophysiological or neuroimaging methods (e.g., EEG, fNIRS, hyperscanning, eye-tracking).

Preferred:

• Familiarity with educational intervention design and evaluation, especially within higher education or adult learning contexts.
• Knowledge of embodied cognition, physically active learning, or movement-based pedagogies.
• Experience with mixed-methods research (quantitative + qualitative).
• Interest in translating neuroscience and movement science into practical educational applications.

Responsibilities:

1. Project Design and Coordination

• Lead the design and development of the PAL intervention adapted for adult learners based on the TransformUS!™ framework.
• Coordinate multi-institutional activities between NIE/NTU, SUSS, and Deakin University.
• Develop research protocols, ethics applications, and implementation timelines.

2. Experimental Implementation

• Oversee the delivery of PAL interventions in partner Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs).
• Work closely with instructors and participants to ensure fidelity of implementation and data integrity.
• Manage participant recruitment, scheduling, and logistics for classroom-based studies.

3. Data Collection and Analysis

• Conduct quantitative and qualitative data analysis, including behavioral and psychometric data.
• Maintain accurate databases and ensure compliance with research ethics and data security standards.

4. Research Dissemination

• Prepare research reports, publications, and conference presentations.
• Contribute to the development of grant applications and future project proposals.
• Support translation of research findings into evidence-based pedagogical recommendations and training resources for educators.

5. Team Collaboration and Mentorship

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members across institutions.
• Supervise and mentor Research Assistants and student interns.
• Participate actively in regular project meetings and research workshops.
• Other duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator

Application

Applicants (external and internal) will apply via Workday. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Closing Date

Closing date for advertisements will be set to 14 calendar days from date of posting.

Hiring Institution: NIE