Job Description
Job Title:  Research Assistant (OR/NBD/CM2)
Posting Start Date:  13/05/2025
Job Description: 

Job Description

The Signature Research Programme in Neuroscience and Behavioural Disorders (NBD) is focused on understanding the structure and function of the nervous system, and the neural mechanisms underlying human neurological, psychiatric and ophthalmological disorders.


There is a Research Assistant position available in the laboratory of Dr. Cao Mian in NBD Programme at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore. The Cao lab focuses on elucidating the pathogenic mechanisms of neurodegeneration particularly Parkinson’s disease (PD) and revealing potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of PD. We will investigate how the impaired synaptic membrane trafficking results in selective neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons in PD, and study the potential synergistic function of PD-linked proteins on synaptic endocytic pathway. We will use a combination of biochemical, cell biological, genetic, physiological, pathological and behavioral approaches on PD mouse models and iPSC/ES derived human neurons for this project.


The selected candidate will perform a variety of functions related to research under the supervision of the Principal Investigator: 

  • Perform animal and human stem cell cultures (primary neuronal culture, cell lines, iPSC neurons etc.) and basic molecular biology works (PCR, cloning, western blotting, protein purification, immunostaining etc.).
  • Assist in maintaining transgenic mice and genotyping.
  • Conduct accurate monitoring, documenting and reporting of experimental results and research findings.
  • Assist in ordering / preparing common reagents and maintaining laboratory inventory.
  • Perform other related duties incidental to the work described therein. 

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree or Master’s Degree in Life Sciences or other related fields.
  • 1 - 2 years of academic laboratory experience.
  • Possess knowledge in cell culture and molecular biology.
  • Have knowledge in laboratory experimental skills and experience in handling mice.
  • Self-motivated and well-organized with good communication and strong teamwork skills.


We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.