Research Associate [LKCMedicine]

Nanyang Technological University Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 33,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) in Singapore seeks a motivated Research Assistant to advance cancer and stem cell biology research. The role involves executing experimental protocols, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to understanding cancer mechanisms and stem cell behavior.

The candidate will maintain complex cellular models and perform molecular biology techniques, collaborating with the PI and PhD students to refine experimental plans.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in cell biology, biochemistry, or molecular biology.
• Minimum of 1 year hands-on laboratory experience with organoid culture and stem cell maintenance.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and develop complex cellular models, including organoids, 3D spheroids, and 2D cell cultures.
• Independently conduct and analyze molecular and cellular biology experiments (qRT-PCR, CRISPR, live-cell imaging, biochemical assays).
• Collaborate with the PI and PhD students to execute outlined research plans and optimize protocols.
• Support lab safety by contributing to Risk Assessments (RAs) and SOPs.

Skills

Good written and oral communication

Project planning and execution

Independent and collaborative work

Problem solving and troubleshooting

Education

Master's degree in cell biology, biochemistry, or molecular biology

Job description

The Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) trains doctors who put patients at the centre of their exemplary care. The School, which offers both undergraduate and graduate programmes, is named after local philanthropist Tan Sri Dato Lee Kong Chian. Established in 2010 by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, in partnership with Imperial College London, LKCMedicine aims to be a model for innovative medical education and a centre for transformative research. The School’s primary clinical partner is the National Healthcare Group, a leader in public healthcare recognised for the quality of its medical expertise, facilities and teaching. The School is transitioning to an NTU medical school ahead of the 2028 successful conclusion of the NTU-Imperial partnership to set up a Joint Medical School. In August 2024, we welcomed our first intake of the NTU MBBS programme, that has been recently enhanced to include themes like precision medicine and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare, with an expanded scope in the medical humanities. Graduates from the five-year undergraduate medical degree programme will have a strong understanding of the scientific basis of medicine, with an emphasis on technology, data science and the humanities.

The Liu Lab (Principal Investigator: Dr. Yi Liu) of the Cancer Discovery and Regenerative Medicine Programme at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) is a collaborative, forwarding‑thinking, and innovative cell biology research laboratory. The lab aims to conduct impactful and creative cancer and stem cell research by leveraging 3D cell models including organoids and spheroids. For more details, please view the Liu lab website https://liulab.myportfolio.com/ & the programme website https://www.ntu.edu.sg/medicine/research/research-programmes/cancer-discovery-regenerative-medicine.

We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join our team in advancing cancer and stem cell biology research. The role will independently executing experimental protocols, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to our understanding of cancer mechanisms and stem cell behavior.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and develop complex cellular models, including organoids, 3D spheroids, and 2D cell cultures.
• Independently conduct and analyze a range of molecular and cellular biology experiments, utilizing techniques such as qRT-PCR, CRISPR-based genetic manipulation, advanced live‑cell imaging, and biochemical assays.
• Collaborate directly with the Principal Investigator (PI) and PhD students to execute outlined research plans and optimize experimental protocols.
• Support laboratory compliance and safety by assisting and contributing to the creation of Risk Assessments (RAs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Required Educational Qualification, Experience, Skills And Competencies

• Master's degree (for Research Associate) in cell biology, biochemistry, or molecular biology
• Candidate must have Minimum of 1 year of hands‑on laboratory experience with organoid culture and stem cell maintenance
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to develop, manage, and execute research plans
• Competent in observance, patience, resilience, and determination
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to work independently and collaboratively to develop solutions and troubleshoot under strict timelines
• Highly meticulous with a strong attention to detail, excellent organizational, and time management skills
• Entry level candidates are welcome to apply

Hiring Institution: LKC