Program Manager (SIGMA)

About SIGMA:

The Southeast Asian Innovation Alliance for a Global Model of Future Agri-Food Systems (SIGMA) is a joint research alliance between the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and the National University of Singapore (NUS). The SIGMA Rice Project is a flagship effort that aims to facilitate adoption of low-emission rice production methods in Southeast Asia by improving the accuracy, scalability, and affordability of greenhouse gas monitoring and yield forecasting in smaller holder rice systems in Southeast Asia. The initial project stage is focused in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, where SIGMA is piloting a science-based, scalable MRV approach for rice with an emphasis on alternative irrigation practices, implemented in partnership with Can Tho University and the University of Arkansas.

About This Role:

The SIGMA initiative seeks a highly organized and motivated Program Manager to support coordination and delivery of international research initiatives focused on digital innovation for sustainable agriculture. The position will provide management and administrative support for projects including the AI4Science program and the SIGMA Rice Project, which are collaborative efforts between UIUC, NUS, and global partners. The successful candidate will work closely with project leads, and external collaborators to ensure smooth communication, timely deliverables, and alignment with strategic goals across multi-institutional teams.

Key Responsibilities:

. Coordinate day-to-day management of multiple scientific research and implementation projects under Illinois ARCS, including AI4S and SIGMA Rice.

. Support planning, tracking, and reporting of research milestones, budgets, and deliverables.

. Facilitate communication between UIUC, NUS, and other international research partners.

. Organize project meetings, workshops, and outreach events prepare related materials and summaries.

. Manage documentation for grant administration, compliance, and reporting requirements.

. Support preparation of technical reports, manuscripts, and presentations.

. Assist in stakeholder engagement ,including with government agencies, private-sector partners, and academic collaborators.

. Provide logistical and administrative support for local and visiting researchers and students associated with SIGMA projects.

. Interface between local teams and the international SIGMA coordination team to provide updates, resolve challenges, and share information.

Qualifications and Experience:

Required:

. Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., project management, natural and physical sciences, information science, public policy, agriculture, or engineering).

. Demonstrated experience in managing or supporting research projects.

. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills ability to manage multiple priorities across institutions.

. Excellent communication and writing skills in English.

Preferred:

. Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., (Jira, Trellio, or similar).

. Experience in managing international, interdisciplinary, or multi-institutional research collaborations.

. Familiarity with AI tools, sustainability, or agricultural research programs.

. Experience with budgeting, contracts, and grants reporting.

. Willing to participate in online meetings outside of regular working hours to ensure timely communication and continuity of business, in view of the strategic and affiliated relationship between the Illinois ARCS and the UIUC, as well as the time zone differences between the two locations.

Application Process:

Important .Interested candidates should submit their resume/CV together with a cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience for the position to Jacqueline Koh ([Confidential Information]) and Jessica Till ([HIDDEN TEXT]) with the subject line SIGMA Project Manager - Singapore. Please also include the names and contact details of three professional referees.

Applications will be considered until the corresponding position has been filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.