Job Description

The Spatial Biology Core is a core facility within the Cancer Science Institute of Singapore. It provides end-to-end solutions for tissue-based research through access to advanced platforms, expert consultation and specialised services that support the research needs of CSI Singapore and the wider NUS ecosystem. The Core’s capabilities span two key areas: bioimaging and spatial biology.

We are seeking a meticulous, service-oriented and technically capable Senior/ Laboratory Executive to support the day-to-day operations of the spatial biology arm of the Spatial Biology Core. The successful candidate will deliver end-to-end spatial biology services across spatial proteomics and spatial transcriptomics, including sample processing, assay execution, imaging and image analysis. The role also includes administrative responsibilities such as purchasing, billing support, service documentation and maintenance of safety records. Strong multitasking ability is essential, as the position requires managing concurrent technical, administrative and user-support responsibilities.

Current spatial biology platforms available at the Spatial Biology Core include: Bruker Digital Spatial Profiler and nCounter; Quanterix PhenoCycler and PhenoImager; and multiplexed immunohistochemistry using Opal-TSA technology and Leica Bond autostainers. Additional platforms may be introduced as the Core expands.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary operator for spatial transcriptomics services, including the Digital Spatial Profiler and nCounter platforms.
• Assist with PhenoCycler and multiplexed immunohistochemistry services, including image analysis, when required.
• Work closely with the Facility Manager to evaluate, incorporate and optimise workflows for new spatial transcriptomics platforms.
• Prepare, update and maintain technical documentation, protocols and workflow guides.
• Provide user training and technical support where appropriate.
• Support troubleshooting, quality control and continuous improvement of spatial biology workflows.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Coordinate and renew service contracts for spatial biology equipment.
• Assist with the purchasing of reagents, consumables and equipment for the Spatial Biology Core.
• Prepare and maintain safety documentation, standard operating procedures and risk assessments for the spatial biology section.
• Maintain accurate and systematic records of services rendered, equipment usage and related documentation.
• Support billing and other facility administration processes where required.
• Perform other ad hoc duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Applicants should have at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a related discipline from an accredited university.

Required Skills and Experience

• Good understanding of immunology, molecular biology, cancer biology, medicine, bioinformatics or a related field.
• Experience with traditional spatial biology techniques such as immunohistochemistry, RNAscope or related tissue-based assays.
• Familiarity with basic histology workflows, including FFPE block preparation and tissue sectioning.
• Experience with advanced spatial biology platforms such as Bruker Digital Spatial Profiler, Quanterix PhenoCycler / PhenoImager, or 10x Genomics Visium / Xenium / other comparable platforms will be a strong advantage.
• Experience with image analysis software such as inForm, Visiopharm or QuPath will be highly regarded.
• Knowledge or training in histology and/or anatomy will be favourably considered.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience using AI tools for documentation, data analysis, image analysis or workflow optimisation would be advantageous.
• Prior experience supporting users, training junior staff or working in a shared research facility will be favourably considered.

Personal Attributes

• Excellent multitasking ability is essential, with the capacity to manage multiple projects, service requests, documentation tasks and operational priorities concurrently.
• Meticulous, organised and service-oriented.
• Able to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of a shared research facility.
• Able to perform effectively under pressure while maintaining attention to detail.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Positive work attitude, with enthusiasm and willingness to learn on the job.