Research Assistant/Associate (Micro & Immuno)

Job Description

The National University of Singapore invites applications for a Research Assistant/Research Associate for the project “Single Cell RNA Sequencing to Study Invasion Factors in Malaria Parasites” in the team of Dr. Jaishree Tripathi at Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. The Department of Microbiology and Immunology has distinguished itself in biomedical research and has a broad spectrum of expertise. Research in the Department encompasses very diverse questions and uses a wide variety of approaches, experimental systems, and techniques. Principal Investigators of the Department are internationally recognized for research on immunology, medical virology, bacteriology, parasitology, molecular biology and biotechnology. Appointments for this position will be made on a 1-year contract basis in the first instance, with the possibility of extension for up to 3 years based on performance.

Purpose of the post

The Research Assistant/Research Associate (RA) will be responsible for setting up the Single Cell RNA Sequencing pipeline in Dr. Tripathi’s group and investigate stochastic gene expression in malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium knowlesi. The RA’s principal role will be to conduct wet lab experiments, data collection and data analysis on the above-mentioned project and to assist the lead PI in managing and up-keep of the lab.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The main duties and responsibilities are listed below but this is not exhaustive and may evolve as the project and lab requirements develops. The RA will be responsible for:

1. Laboratory:

• Lab-related purchasing (reagents/equipments/cosumable) and re-stocking of items. Ensure that the laboratory is adequately stocked with clean glassware, chemicals, and consumables for experiments. Maintain an up-to-date inventory and database of existing lab materials, consumables and plasticware in the lab and order as necessary.
• Responsible for the cleanliness and maintenance of equipment and the laboratory.
• Drafting of all Health & Safety related documentation (e.g. SOPs, RAs, other approvals) related and required for the above project. Assist with any other duties of a similar nature that are delegated by the PI.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

1. Research:

• Establishment of stable malaria cultures in the lab for different species and creating frozen stocks for each. The RA will also be expected to conduct literature searches regularly and be up to date on the latest research.
• Testing the efficiency of different single cell RNA sequencing related protocols (e.g. SMARTseq3, MALBAC, 10X Genomics) that will be most suited for the project aims. Establish an optimized pipeline from start to end for identification of stochastic genes using the optimized approach.
• Cell sorting, RT-PCR and sequencing library preparation and outsourcing for sequencing.
• RNA Sequencing data processing and analysis using Unix and R Studio.
• Validation of stochastic genes using RNA-FISH approach.
• To organize, document and present results of the experiments in a logical manner.
• To assist in supervising, training and guiding new undergraduate/graduate students in the lab.
• Maintain the highest standard of professional conduct and record keeping in accordance with NUS policies and procedures;

Qualifications

The applicant should:

1. Have a Bachelors degree with good results or holds a Master’s degree in Life Sciences/ Molecular Biology/ Cell Biology/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology or related area.
2. Good command of English language (proficient level speaking, reading, writing) and communication skills.
3. Have knowledge of cell and molecular biology techniques such as sterile cell culture, PCR, Reverse transcription, flow cytometry, DNA/RNA purification, fluorescence microscopy.
4. Knowledge of sequencing sample preparation and data analysis (highly preferred).
5. Have knowledge of computer applications, e.g. R Studio, MS office, Excel, PowerPoint, FlowJo, GraphPad; and
6. Be able to lead the project and work independently, have an investigative nature, attention to detail;

Application

Remuneration will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience. Previous research experience in the field of molecular biology and sequencing data analysis will be highly preferred.

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Dr. Jaishree Tripathi, at jtmic@nus.edu.sg

Formal application: Please provide the following information for submitting your application:

1. A detailed CV (including personal particulars, academic and employment history, past research experience).
2. Complete list of publications/oral presentations
3. Full contacts of 2 referees (including their name, contact information (email) and relationship to applicant ,if available)
4. Current/expected salary

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

More Information

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine

Department : Microbiology And Immunology

Employee Referral Eligible: No

Job requisition ID : 24202