Graduate Research Assistant (PhD)

AIMST University; Bedong; On-site; MYR 28,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

36-month stipend

Interdisciplinary training

Publications & conferences

Workshops access

Mentorship from UPM seed tech expert

Industry exposure

Job summary

AIMST University is seeking a motivated PhD Graduate Research Assistant for a 36-month, full-time research appointment in Malaysia. The project focuses on developing next-generation microbial biofertilizers for sustainable rice production, including genome-guided strain selection and seed coating technology.

The successful candidate will work across microbiology, molecular biology, microbial genomics, bioinformatics, and agricultural biotechnology, contributing to literature reviews,

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s degree with First Class Honours (CGPA ≥3.70) in a relevant discipline.
• Foundational knowledge of microbiology, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques.
• Experience in microbial genomics or bioinformatics is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews to inform project design and objectives.
• Perform laboratory experiments and characterize beneficial bacterial strains.
• Analyze genomic and experimental data for insights on biofertilizer formulations.
• Develop and evaluate microbial biofertilizer formulations; conduct stability studies.
• Prepare research outputs: publications, presentations, and project reports.
• Collaborate with academic and industry partners on the funded project.

Skills

Literature review

Experimental design

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Teamwork

Independent research

Education

Master’s degree in Biotechnology/Biology/etc.

Bachelor’s with First Class Honours CGPA ≥3.70

Tools

Genomic sequencing

Bioinformatics tools

Laboratory techniques

Job description

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic PhD Graduate Research Assistant for a 36-month, full-time research appointment at AIMST University, Malaysia, under a funded project focused on developing next-generation microbial biofertilizers for sustainable rice production. The project, titled \"Genomic-Guided Bacillus Biofertilizer Consortium with Seed Coating Technology for Sustainable Rice Productivity in Malaysia,\" aims to develop an innovative microbial biofertilizer through genome-guided bacterial strain selection, formulation optimization, and seed coating technology.

The successful candidate will be involved in multidisciplinary research integrating microbiology, molecular biology, microbial genomics, bioinformatics, and agricultural biotechnology. Key responsibilities include conducting literature reviews, performing laboratory experiments, characterizing beneficial bacterial strains, analyzing genomic and experimental data, developing and evaluating microbial biofertilizer formulations, performing stability studies and assessing their effectiveness in promoting rice growth and productivity. The candidate will also contribute to scientific publications, research presentations, project reports, and collaborations with academic and industry partners.

Qualifications

• Applicants should possess a Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a closely related field, or a Bachelor’s degree with First Class Honours (CGPA ≥ 3.70) in a relevant discipline.
• Candidates should have foundational knowledge of microbiology, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques.
• Experience in microbial genomics or bioinformatics will be an added advantage.
• Knowledge of fertilizer formulation, biopolymers, or agricultural biotechnology will advantageous but not mandatory.
• Candidates should possess research-related skills, including literature review, experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and preparation of research publications.
• Candidates should demonstrate good communication, teamwork, organizational skills, and the ability to conduct research independently under supervision.
• Applicants must be willing to pursue a full-time PhD programme at AIMST University.

What We Offer

• Monthly Graduate Research Assistant stipend for 36 months.
• Interdisciplinary research training in microbiology, microbial genomics, bioinformatics, seed technology, and sustainable agriculture.
• Opportunities for scientific publications and conference participation.
• Access to relevant research workshops at no cost.
• Research mentorship from a leading seed technology specialist at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), alongside industry exposure through Bio Terra Solution Sdn. Bhd
• Opportunities to contribute to research addressing food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural productivity.