Research Assistant [LKCMedicine]

Nanyang Technological University Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Nanyang Technological University Singapore is seeking a talented research assistant for the Hwei‑Ee Tan Lab at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine. The role includes conducting high-level research on the microbiome-gut-brain connection, conducting lab duties, and mentoring team members. Applicants should hold a Biology degree, possess skills in mice handling and optogenetics, and demonstrate strong motivation and team spirit. The position promotes collaboration in a dynamic research environment.

Qualifications

• Keen interest in microbiome-gut-brain neuroscience research.
• Proficient in relevant techniques such as molecular biology and histology.
• Highly motivated and conscientious individual.

Responsibilities

• Develop and conduct high-quality research independently.
• Lead and assist in dynamic lab projects and duties.
• Mentor and collaborate with group members and research teams.

Skills

Mice/rodent handling

Optogenetics

Behavioural analysis

Animal surgery

Calcium imaging

Microbiome analysis

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Biology or relevant disciplines

Job description

The Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine), a partnership between Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) and Imperial College London (Imperial), trains doctors who put patients at the centre of exemplary care. In line with the School’s vision of redefining medicine and transforming healthcare, the motivation of LKCMedicine’s research is to shape future medicine and healthcare through disruptive discoveries and inventions that have national and global impact. The five key research focuses at LKCMedicine are: Neuroscience and Mental Health, Population/Global Health, Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, Nutrition, Metabolism & Health, and Skin Diseases and Wound Repair. These strategic programmes directly address Singapore’s healthcare challenges of tomorrow, including caring for its rapidly ageing population. Intersecting with these programmes are cross‑cutting themes such as Data Science, Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, and Microbiome Medicine for which we have unique strengths.

The Hwei‑Ee Tan Lab studies the fundamental biological basis of “gut‑feelings”, investigating how bacteria in the gut signal to the host to influence physiology and behaviour. Using mice as a mammalian model, the lab explores how diet and microbiome factors modulate host phenotypes such as food reward, anxiety behaviours, and more. Supporting curiosity‑driven basic research on the gut‑brain axis, the lab also examines host‑microbe interactions. The research scope is multidisciplinary, covering skills from molecular biology to systems neuroscience, physiology and behaviour. With top‑tier research support from the National Research Foundation Singapore, Brain & Behaviour Research Foundation (NARSAD), etc., the lab at NTU LKCMedicine is actively recruiting talented postdoctoral research fellows, research assistants, and interns, and is open to sponsoring motivated PhD/Masters students. A short‑term or part‑time research assistantship may also be arranged for motivated trainees. Applicants are strongly encouraged to look up the lab’s website and contact the PI with a cover letter and CV/resume.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and conduct high‑quality research independently, drawing on relevant experience in areas such as mice/rodent handling, optogenetics and behaviour, animal surgery and dissection, calcium imaging, gnotobiotic studies, and microbiome analysis.
• Lead, assist, or learn in a dynamic range of projects and lab duties, including but not limited to molecular biology and histology procedures, microscopy, rodent behavioural assays, neuroscience optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques, functional recording and calcium imaging, mice surgery, data analysis and presentation, lab maintenance, and academic and administrative tasks.
• Mentor and collaborate with group members and other research teams.
• Demonstrate exceptional self‑motivation and teamwork.
• Perform any other responsibilities as advised by the PI based on evolving lab needs.

Key Competencies and Educational Requirements

• Hold a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Biology or relevant disciplines.
• Have a keen interest in the lab’s research theme on the microbiome–gut–brain neuroscience.
• Be proficient in the relevant techniques described above.
• Be highly motivated and conscientious.
• Demonstrate competencies and qualifications satisfactorily.
• Work independently and effectively in a team.
• Have good organisational, verbal, and interpersonal skills.

Hiring Institution: LKC