Research Assistant (Dept of Biochemistry)

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We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Job Description

The National University of Singapore invites applications for Research Assistant for “High-throughput culturomics study of human microbiota” in the Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. The Department undertakes excellence in research and scholarship through intimate support of our faculty and staff in the NUS Medicine Translational Research Programmes (TRPs). Our scientific strengths and leadership is evidenced by Biochemistry being the academic home of 4 TRP Directors, and by stellar research scholarship in cancer, cardiovascular disease, digital medicine, healthy longevity, human potential, infectious disease, immunology, precision medicine and synthetic biology. Appointments will be made on a 1-year contract basis in the first instance, with the possibility of extension.

Purpose of the post

We are seeking a skilled Research Assistant to support our advanced research in developing new methodologies utilising cutting-edge automation approach to unveil the complex connection between microbial population and human health. The successful candidate will primarily be responsible for sample preparation, single-cell isolation workflow optimization, and novel bacterial species characterisation. This role offers an excellent opportunity to work with state-of-the-art single-cell dispensing platform, develop expertise in high-output nanopore sequencing, and contribute to impactful scientific research.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

This role will suit an individual passionate about microbiology and omics study to understand host-microbes interactions. The RA will be able to:

1. conduct wet lab experiments;
2. Assist in the isolation, characterisation, and genomic analysis of bacterial samples;
3. Prepare research findings for publications, reports, and presentations;
4. Undertake the day-to-day running of the project and collaborate with team members in supporting lab operation;
5. Daily lab management tasks such as inventory of supplies and samples, preparing culture media and solutions, autoclaving materials, ordering supplies and maintaining bacterial cultures and stocks;
6. Conduct literature searches and analyse data, as well as assist in preparing both progress and final reports of the project;
7. Maintain the highest standard of professional conduct and record keeping in accordance with policies and procedures;
8. Assist with any other duties of a similar nature that are delegated by the PI.

Qualifications

The applicant should:

1. At least Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or a related field.
2. Prior experience in laboratory research, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria handling, or molecular genetics is highly preferred.
3. Proficiency in techniques in cell and molecular biology such as PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, sequencing, fluorescence microscopy, and cloning.
4. Strong data analysis skills and familiarity with microbial culturomics.
5. Excellent verbal and written communication, able to prepare clear research documentation and contribute to team discussions.
6. Highly organised, detail-oriented, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Application

Remuneration will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Assoc. Prof. Niranjan Nagarajan ([email protected]) and Dr. On Yue Yuan ([email protected]).

Formal application: Please submit your application, indicating current/expected salary, supported by a detailed CV (including personal particulars, academic and employment history, complete list of publications/oral presentations (if any) and full contacts of three (3) referees to this job portal.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.