Postdoctoral Researcher, Computational Biology or Systems Biology (SRTT-SIBER)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a postdoctoral researcher specializing in computational and systems biology. This exciting role involves developing advanced computational tools for microbial strain engineering, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and mentoring students. Join a well-funded laboratory supported by leading research organizations and contribute to impactful projects aimed at transforming Singapore's energy and chemicals sector. With access to state-of-the-art technologies and a supportive environment, this position offers a unique opportunity to advance your scientific career while making significant contributions to the bioeconomy.

Benefits

Well-funded laboratory

Close mentorship

Access to state-of-the-art technologies

Collaboration with industrial partners

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant fields with strong background in computational biology.
• Experience in developing tools for biological research and AI/ML applications.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational tools for microbial strain engineering and high-value chemical production.
• Collaborate with PIs and mentor students in the lab.

Skills

Computational Biology

Systems Biology

Bioinformatics

Cheminformatics

AI/ML Applications

Analytical Skills

Education

PhD in Computational Biology

PhD in Systems Biology

PhD in Bioinformatics

Tools

Omics Technologies

Design of Experiments (DoE)

Metabolite Modeling

Programming

Job description

SIBER SRTT PDRA position in Computational Biology or Systems Biology for initially 3 years with the possibility to extend 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 plans to expand to other sectors. It aims to create a synthetic biology platform initially for sustainable chemicals and fuels, utilizing a unique organism library based on Singapore's biodiversity. SIBER’s vision is to be a premier hub in industrial biotechnology innovation for energy, chemicals, and other sectors, empowering Singapore to seize future bioeconomy opportunities.

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in computational biology or systems biology to join our laboratory within A*STAR SIBER SRTT.

Job Description:

1. Develop and apply advanced computational tools to support microbial strain and metabolic engineering activities aimed at producing high-value chemicals in microbial cell factories. This includes genome mining, retro(bio)synthesis, metabolic pathway modeling, protein design, and omics data analysis, leveraging AI/ML techniques where appropriate.
2. Collaborate closely with PIs and other team members leading computational efforts.
3. Apply for individual research grants and proactively seek research proposals for career development.
4. Present research findings at seminars, meetings, and international conferences.
5. Publish research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals.
6. Mentor students, interns, and technicians in the laboratory.
7. Maintain strong professional relationships within local and international research networks.
8. Communicate effectively and work collaboratively as a team player.

Requirements:

1. PhD in Computational Biology, Systems Biology, Bioinformatics, Cheminformatics, or related fields.
2. Strong background in current developments in computational and systems biology, including AI/ML applications, with demonstrated ability to develop and apply cutting-edge tools for biological research.
3. Excellent understanding of synthetic biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, and process engineering concepts.
4. Track record of peer-reviewed publications; at least one first-authored paper is advantageous.
5. Motivated, creative, and passionate about scientific research and continuous learning.
6. Exceptional analytical, experimental design, technical, and problem-solving skills.
7. Proficient in scientific communication, writing, and editing.
8. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.
9. Interest in translational and applied research, including industrial collaborations.
10. Experience with omics technologies, data analysis, Design of Experiments (DoE), metabolite modeling, and programming is a plus.
11. Strong supervisory skills are a plus.

We offer:

1. A well-funded laboratory supported by A*STAR, NRF, and industry, offering diverse projects and research opportunities.
2. A supportive environment with close mentorship to develop your scientific career.
3. Access to state-of-the-art technologies, core facilities, and infrastructure within A*STAR.
4. Opportunities for collaboration with industrial partners to translate research into commercial and societal impacts.