Job Description

SLING, the Singapore Lipidomics Incubator at the National University of Singapore (NUS), is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Assistant/Associate to join our innovative team focused on advancing mass spectrometry techniques for biomonitoring applications. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment, engaging with clinical researchers and international partners

Our ideal candidate brings expertise in liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, with hands-on experience in ICP-MS, and is passionate about developing and optimising analytical methods for detecting a variety of biomolecules and contaminants such as metabolites, PFAS, phthalates, PCBs, PAHs, and heavy metals. You will be actively involved in planning, implementing, and refining protocols that enhance our analytical capabilities within a regulated laboratory setting

To apply, please submit your cover letter, detailed curriculum vitae, and contact details of three professional references (including name, institution, and email) to Dr Amaury Cazenave Gassiot at bchacgt@nus.edu.sg. We value every application; however, only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Designing, reviewing, and maintaining comprehensive standard operating procedures to ensure compliance and efficiency across projects.
• Leading method development efforts for LC-MS/MS and ICP-MS focussed on biomonitoring relevant compounds, tailoring techniques to meet stringent sensitivity and specificity requirements.
• Executing sample preparation protocols for human blood samples with meticulous attention to quality and reproducibility.
• Operating LC-MS/MS and ICP-MS instruments independently, performing routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting to uphold optimal performance.
• Collaborating closely with senior scientists and interdisciplinary teams to integrate analytical findings into broader research programmes, facilitating knowledge exchange and scientific advancement.
• Conducting rigorous quality control and data processing of mass spectrometry outputs, applying statistical and bioinformatic tools as appropriate to ensure data integrity.
• Contributing to the preparation of detailed project reports, publications, and presentations to communicate progress and findings to internal stakeholders and external collaborators.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Life Sciences, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise through at least five years of professional experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory is essential.
• Proven proficiency in method development and validation for LC-MS/MS analysis, specifically targeting metabolites, PFAS, phthalates, PCBs, and PAHs, is required.
• Strong practical experience in ICP-MS method development and operational proficiency in detecting and quantifying heavy metals is mandatory.
• Skilled in the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and ICP-MS instrumentation.
• Experience working in regulated environments such as clinical laboratories, CROs, or diagnostic laboratories, particularly those complying with ISO standards or similar regulatory frameworks, will be highly regarded.
• Effective communication skills to facilitate close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.
• A detail-oriented approach with an emphasis on quality assurance and adherence to laboratory best practices.

Applicants with previous exposure to clinical test development leading to regulatory approval will have a distinct advantage, reflecting the emphasis on compliance and rigorous scientific standards at SLING.