Assistant Professor

National University of Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

National University of Singapore invites applications for a senior research leadership role focused on RNA biology and cancer biology. The candidate will establish an independent programme, integrate molecular biology, genomics, and translational approaches, and lead collaborations across national and international partners.

The role involves securing grants, mentoring students and staff, and driving translational outcomes in RNA therapeutics and biomarkers.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field with postdoctoral training.
• Proven ability to lead independent research programs.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead an independent RNA biology research programme.
• Investigate RNA regulation and cancer biology to uncover therapeutic targets.
• Translate discoveries into clinically relevant RNA therapeutics and biomarkers.
• Secure national and international research funding and manage budgets.
• Mentor and supervise researchers and foster an inclusive lab culture.
• Develop interdisciplinary collaborations across NUS, CSI Singapore, and partners.

Skills

Leadership

Grant writing

RNA biology

Postdoctoral experience

Education

PhD degree

Postdoctoral training

Job description

Key Responsibilities

Research Leadership

• Establish and lead an independent research programme investigating RNA biology, RNA interference, microRNA (miRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and post-transcriptional gene regulation.
• Conduct cutting-edge research to elucidate how cellular metabolism influences RNA regulatory mechanisms and cancer biology.
• Develop novel RNA-based therapeutic approaches and identify new molecular targets for precision cancer treatment.
• Translate fundamental discoveries into clinically relevant applications, including RNA therapeutics, biomarkers, and drug development.

Scientific Innovation

• Design and execute innovative research projects integrating molecular biology, RNA biology, genomics, transcriptomics, and functional genomics.
• Investigate the roles of metabolic enzymes and endogenous metabolites in regulating RNA function and cellular homeostasis.
• Apply emerging technologies to study RNA-protein interactions, RNA silencing pathways, and gene expression regulation.
• Identify opportunities for therapeutic intervention through modulation of RNA regulatory pathways.

Grant Development & Research Funding

• Secure competitive national and international research funding.
• Lead multi-investigator grant applications and collaborative research initiatives.
• Manage research budgets and ensure efficient utilisation of research resources.

Research Team Leadership

• Recruit, supervise, and mentor research fellows, research assistants, graduate students, and other laboratory personnel.
• Foster a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive laboratory culture.
• Provide scientific mentorship and career development for junior researchers.

Collaboration

• Develop interdisciplinary collaborations across CSI Singapore, NUS, healthcare institutions, and international research organisations.
• Partner with clinician-scientists to facilitate translational and precision oncology research.
• Engage with pharmaceutical and biotechnology partners where appropriate to accelerate therapeutic development.

Scholarly Activities

• Publish high-impact scientific findings in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research findings at international scientific conferences and symposia.
• Serve on scientific advisory panels, grant review committees, and editorial boards as appropriate.

Teaching & Academic Contributions

• Contribute to graduate education through supervision of postgraduate students.
• Participate in teaching, seminars, journal clubs, and academic training programmes within NUS.
• Support institutional initiatives in research excellence and talent development.

Laboratory & Compliance Management

• Ensure compliance with institutional, biosafety, ethical, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee laboratory operations, equipment, and research infrastructure.
• Promote good research practices and research integrity.

Qualifications

• • Ph.D degree and postdoctoral training in the appropriate field.
• • Demonstrated significant creativity and early independence in research

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.