Job Description

Principal Investigator: Prof Chng Wee Joo

The Research Assistant will support a comprehensive translational research programme which involves conducting laboratory-based experiments, managing human tumour samples, and supporting genomics- and proteomics-driven studies aimed at identifying clinically relevant biomarkers, disease subtypes, and therapeutic targets. The position contributes to the laboratory’s bench-to-bedside pipeline, supporting pre-clinical validation of discoveries prior to clinical translation.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Research & Experimental Work

• Perform molecular and cellular biology experiments (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, gene expression analysis, protein assasys and cell culture)
• Support high-throughput genomics and proteomics workflows (e.g., Microarray and next-generation sequencing (NGS) sample preparation)
• Assist in pre-clinical validation studies using cell lines and/or model systems.

Human Tumour Sample & Tissue Bank Support

• Handle and process human tumour samples in compliance with biosafety, ethical, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in the maintenance of a comprehensive tissue bank, ensuring:
• Accurate sample labelling, storage, and inventory tracking
• Proper documentation for downstream genomic and proteomic analyses.

Data Management & Documentation

• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records (laboratory notebooks and electronic systems).
• Assist with data entry and curation (e.g., clinical databases and relational databases used for integrated systems biology analysis)
• Support preparation of figures, tables, and summaries for presentations, reports, and publications.

General Laboratory Support

• Assist with laboratory organisation, reagent preparation, and equipment maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with institutional safety guidelines and SOPs.
• Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and training activities.

Requirements

Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Candidates with Honours or relevant research experience are preferred.

Technical Skills (Preferred)

• Basic experience in molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA work, PCR, cell culture).
• Familiarity with genomics, sequencing platforms, or bioinformatics tools is an advantage.
• Experience handling human samples or working in a translational research setting is beneficial.

Soft Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and good organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn new techniques and adapt to evolving research needs.