Research Assistant (iPSC biology and/or RNA biochemistry) - #1175437

Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUS Career Portal. Please note your application will only be processed if you apply via NUS Career Portal.

NUS Career Portal link: https://careers.nus.edu.sg/job/Research-Assistant-(iPSC-biology-andor-RNA-biochemistry)/34939-en_GB/

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

We are seeking Research Assistants to join as Molecular Biologists interested in RNA metabolism and transcriptional dynamics in the Patani lab at NUS. The Patani lab has played a pioneering role in neurodegenerative disease modeling focused on RNA metabolism and cellular autonomy using human patient-derived iPSC neuronal cultures. The lab is looking for creative and driven cellular and molecular biologists with experience in iPSC biology and/or RNA biochemistry to join the group.

Beyond the wet lab personnel, the lab currently comprises dry lab scientists with whom the Research Assistant is expected to collaborate closely. This provides the opportunity to be involved in projects from experimental design through to target prioritization, validation, and mechanistic deconvolution.

The Research Assistant will have the opportunity to develop key projects focused on the role of deregulated RNA metabolism across different neurodegenerative disorders, where the lab has published significant papers. Specific project details will be developed in close discussion with Prof. Patani.

Job Responsibilities

The post holder will join a dedicated research team studying neurodegeneration using human induced pluripotent stem cells. They will investigate molecular causes of neuronal and glial dysfunction, focusing on RNA metabolism. The role involves advanced molecular methods and sequencing to examine aberrant splicing and cellular imbalance. This opportunity allows contribution to impactful research within a diverse scientific community. Key responsibilities are:

• Designing and managing research programmes to meet objectives.

• Collaborating with experimental and data scientists to ensure progress.

• Overseeing experiment setup and execution with proper supervision.

• Ensuring timely recording, analysis, and documentation of results.

• Preparing and presenting research findings to colleagues.

• Submitting papers to journals and presenting at conferences.

• Training and supervising students and staff on techniques and protocols.

Teaching, Research and Development

• Delivering teaching on relevant topics as directed by the line manager.

• Contributing to multidisciplinary research aligned with department strategy.

• Preparing and analyzing data for publications and presentations at conferences and meetings.

General Duties

• Maintaining accurate, complete, and up-to-date records with strict confidentiality.

• Participating in Departmental, Institutional, and other meetings.

• Upholding professional standards in all research activities.

• Supporting NUS’ Sustainability Strategy and policies.

• Complying with Department, Institute, and NUS policies and regulations.

The above description is not exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake any other duties reasonably requested within the scope, spirit, and purpose of the post.

Qualifications

• Possess a minimum of Bachelor Degree in the following field: Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences
• Demonstrable prior experience in molecular biology, esp. probing RNA-protein interactions e.g. RIP, CLIP, RBPome capture methods (Required)
• Prior experience investigating transcriptional, splicing and/or post-transcriptional mechanisms of disease (Required).
• Demonstrable experience working in a research environment conducting rigorous/thorough investigations (Required).
• Prior experience working with iPSCs and directed differentiation (Desired).
• Some knowledge/interest in molecular biology and neuroscience (Desired).