Postdoctoral Researcher, Bioprocess Engineering (SRTT-SIBER)

Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR); Singapore; On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research organization is seeking a postdoctoral researcher specializing in bioprocess engineering to contribute to cutting-edge projects in synthetic biology. This role offers the opportunity to work on high-value chemical production using microbial cell factories, collaborate with a dynamic team, and engage in mentorship. The position promises a supportive environment with access to advanced technologies and resources, allowing for impactful research that translates to real-world applications. If you're passionate about scientific discovery and eager to make a difference, this opportunity is tailor-made for you.

Benefits

Access to state-of-the-art technologies

Close mentorship

Collaborations with industrial partners

Support for research projects

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field with strong background in process engineering and synthetic biology.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications, ideally with first-authored papers.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments in strain engineering and metabolic engineering for chemical production.
• Mentor students and interns while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.

Skills

Bioprocess Engineering

Synthetic Biology

Analytical Skills

Technical Problem-Solving

Experimental Design

Education

PhD in Life Sciences

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Design of Experiments (DoE)

Programming

Job description

SIBER SRTT PDRA position in Bioprocess Engineering for initially 3 years with a possibility to extend the appointment for an additional 2 years.

A*STAR Strategic Research and Translational Thrusts (SRTTs) are mission-focused programmes in strategic and emerging areas that are cross-disciplinary and of wider strategic interest to A*STAR and Singapore. Set up to address ambitious technological challenges towards impactful outcomes, each SRTT is led by a Programme Director (PD) and is centrally facilitated and supported by A*STAR HQ.

The Singapore Integrative Biosystems & Engineering Research (SIBER) SRTT harnesses synthetic biology capabilities to aid the sustainable transformation of Singapore’s Energy & Chemicals sector with the aim to expand to other sectors. It will create a synthetic biology platform initially for sustainable chemicals and fuels, powered by a unique organism library utilising the biodiversity of Singapore. SIBER’s vision is to be a premier hub in industrial biotechnology innovation for the energy / chemicals as well as other sectors, empowering Singapore to seize opportunities in the future bioeconomy.

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in bioprocess engineering to join our laboratory in A*STAR SIBER SRTT.

Job Description:

• Perform experiments involving cutting-edge strain engineering and / or metabolic engineering harnessing synthetic biology and engineering biology approaches for the production of high-value chemicals in microbial cell factories. This includes, for example, aspects of bioprocessing, cell-free systems and or continuous culture and other fermentation systems
• Work closely with the Principal Investigator and also with the other SIBER SRTT team members as well as other relevant research institutes in A*STAR.
• Apply for individual research grants as part of career development
• Present findings at seminars, meetings and national / international conferences
• Write manuscripts for publication.
• Contribute to mentorship of students, interns and technicians in the laboratory
• Be an excellent communicator and team player.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and international research network.

Requirements:

• PhD in Life Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related field
• Strong background in process engineering, chemical engineering, and synthetic biology / engineering biology, with a demonstrated capability for developing and implementing independent research activities at the cutting edge of the field.
• Track record of peer-reviewed scientific publications in internationally recognised journals. Having at least one first-authored paper will be a plus.
• Think methodically, and have dedication, motivation, creativity and passion for scientific research and continuous learning
• Exceptional analytical, experimental design, technical and problem-solving skills
• Communicate in a straightforward and accurate manner, writing and editing scientific documents.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively and efficiently in an interdisciplinary team.
• A strong interest in the translational and applied aspects of research, including collaborations with industrial partners.
• Experience in downstream processing, Design of Experiments (DoE), programming will be a plus.
• Strong supervisory skills will also be a plus.

We offer:

A well-funded laboratory supported by A*STAR, the National Research Foundation (NRF) and industry to pursue a combination of exciting projects and your scientific interests.

A nurturing, supportive and stimulating environment with close mentorship to develop your scientific career.

Access to state-of-the-art technologies, scientific resources, core facilities and infrastructure housed within A*STAR to facilitate your research work.

Access to collaborations with industrial partners to translate research findings to commercial applications and societal impact.