Research Assistant (OR/DAAR)

Duke-NUS Medical School; Singapore; On-site; SGD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Singapore is seeking a passionate Research Assistant to join a team focused on infectious disease antibody responses. The ideal candidate will hold a degree in Life Sciences and have laboratory experience with techniques like ELISA. Responsibilities include planning and conducting experiments and supporting research in sero-surveillance. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, and applicants should be detail-oriented and committed to scientific excellence.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in laboratory techniques such as ELISA and cell culture.
• Familiarity with safe laboratory practices is required.
• Strong understanding of infectious diseases and immunology.

Responsibilities

• Support research in sero-surveillance and mucosal immunity.
• Plan, conduct, and analyze antibody experiments.
• Record and report research findings with scientific rigor.
• Contribute to training and coordinate work with designated staff.

Skills

Laboratory techniques (ELISA, cell culture)

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Strong interpersonal skills

Writing and presentation skills

Detail-oriented

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Life Sciences or related fields

Job description

The Signature Research Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) aims to pioneer the development and discovery of new and more effective methods for the detection, treatment, prevention and control of new and emerging pathogens. EID research work also leads to discovery and testing of new diagnostic tests, treatments and control strategies (such as vaccines). EID is also working towards developing partnerships throughout the region with the development of laboratory and epidemiologic capacity, training scientists and physicians from partnering countries to make Singapore a viable surveillance hub for emerging infectious diseases.

Assistant Professor Ruklanthi de Alwis’s team is searching for a passionate Research Assistant to join her team for an infectious disease antibody adventure.

Her team works on different aspects of antibody and B cells responses to infectious diseases (predominantly arboviruses and respiratory viruses), ranging from sero-surveillance, antibody diagnostic development, mucosal immunity, B cell diversity to monoclonal antibody discovery and development.

The primary role of the position is to perform a variety of research-related activities, including planning, organising and conducting research studies within the overall scope of the team’s research projects under the supervision of the Principal Investigator or other senior research staff. The position will work amongst a diverse multinational research team and entail research activities in the following areas but not limited to the following:

• Support research in sero-surveillance and mucosal immunity of viral pathogens with a major focus on laboratory work and some minor bioinformatic analyses to generate high-quality research data.
• Plan, conduct, and analyze antibody experiments independently or in collaboration with colleagues.
• Record, monitor, and report research findings with scientific rigour.
• Contribute actively to team discussions, data interpretation, and project planning.
• Contribute to training and coordinate work with designated staff on research projects.
• Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein, including contributing to occasional admin and coordination activities.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Life Sciences, Immunology, Molecular Biology or other related fields.
• Prior experience in laboratory techniques, such as ELISA, cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry is required.
• Familiarity with safe laboratory practices is required.
• A strong team player who can work independently and is responsible, detail-oriented, and self-motivated, with a commitment to scientific excellence, teamwork, and laboratory safety.
• Have good technical understanding of infectious diseases, immunology and molecular biology is required.
• Able to travel occasionally for conferences, project sites and meetings with collaborators.
• Possess strong interpersonal, communication, computer, writing and presentation skills, with a passion for learning.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Salary and benefits are commensurate with qualifications and experience.