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Research Associate (OR/NBD/CM1)

Date: 21-Mar-2023

Location: DUKE-NUS MEDICAL SCHOOL, Outram Campus, SG

Company: National University of Singapore

Job Description

The Neuroscience and Behavioural Disorders (NBD) Programme 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 Associate position available in the laboratory of Dr. Mian Cao in NBD Programme at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore. The 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 research activities which include planning, organising and conducting research studies within the overall scope of a research project under the supervision of the Principal Investigator or his/her designate, including but not limited to the following: -

  • 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

  • Master’s Degree in Life Sciences or other related fields.
  • Minimum 1 to 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-organised with good communication and strong teamwork skills.


Interested candidates should submit the cover letter, CV and contact information of 1-2 references to: mian.cao@duke-nus.edu.sg

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Covid-19 Message

At NUS, the health and safety of our staff and students are one of our utmost priorities, and COVID-vaccination supports our commitment to ensure the safety of our community and to make NUS as safe and welcoming as possible. Many of our roles require a significant amount of physical interactions with students/staff/public members. Even for job roles that may be performed remotely, there will be instances where on-campus presence is required.

Taking into consideration the health and well-being of our staff and students and to better protect everyone in the campus, applicants are strongly encouraged to have themselves fully COVID-19 vaccinated to secure successful employment with NUS.