Research Assistant (Mechanobiology Institute)

Job Description

The Mechanobiology Institute (MBI) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is a leading multi-disciplinary institute devoted to developing new paradigms for understanding biological functions in health and diseases from the perspective of cell, tissue and organ mechanics/dynamics and mechano-signal transduction. The institute operates on a fully integrated open-lab philosophy, with an extensive infrastructure supported by core facilities dedicated to technology such as state-of-the-art light microscopy, nano- and micro- fabrication, and computing.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join us as a Research Assistant in the research groups of Dr. Natalie Dye and Dr. Alphée Michelot at the MBI, NUS.

The Dye group is interested in tissue growth and morphogenesis during development and disease. Specifically, their goal is to uncover biophysical mechanisms organizing collective cell behaviour in growing tissues – how cells physically and chemically interact with one another and their boundaries to collectively create tissues of a particular size and shape.

The Michelot group is interested in the cellular cytoskeleton, which is composed of proteins that self-assemble as tubes or filaments in the cell cytoplasm. These biological polymers are organized into dense networks that allow cells to resist mechanical constraints or to exert forces. The main goal of the team is to understand how many associated regulatory proteins function together to regulate cytoskeletal assembly in the cell.

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work closely with talented research fellows, interdisciplinary PIs, and clinician scientists to manage the technical as well as administrative aspects of lab operations. Their primary duties will include supporting specific research projects and lab administration. This is an excellent entry-level job for candidates interested in pursuing postgraduate studies and/or developing skillsets in cellular imaging and image analysis.

Responsibilities

• Assisting in lab procurement, organization and maintenance of lab stocks
• Assuming the role of lab safety lead
• Preparing cell culture media and performing basic cell culture tasks
• Purifying proteins from established protocols and testing their activity
• Using molecular biology and genetics to generate new constructs

Qualifications

Candidates must have a good understanding of cell and molecular biology, and possess the relevant skills. Bench experience is required. Candidates should also possess:

• a Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, biomedical engineering or related disciplines
• (preferred) Experience in cell and tissue culture, molecular biology and protein purification
• ability to work independently, multi-task and work collaboratively in a cross-disciplinary research environment

Salary and benefits are commensurable to educational qualifications and working experience of the candidates. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

More Information

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: Mechanobiology Institute

Department : Research

Employee Referral Eligible: No

Job requisition ID : 26204