Research Officer (DMODL)

NATIONAL CANCER CENTRE OF SINGAPORE PTE LTD; Singapore; On-site; SGD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cancer research facility in Singapore is looking for a research officer to support studies in head and neck cancer. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor/Master's degree in a related field and at least 1 year of experience in tissue culture and molecular techniques. Responsibilities include conducting experiments, mentoring junior staff, and maintaining lab operations. This role requires strong technical skills and a commitment to cancer research.

Qualifications

• 1 year experience with tissue culture and molecular techniques.
• Experience with handling patient-derived samples is preferred.
• Strong technical and wet lab skills.

Responsibilities

• Support research activities in head and neck cancer studies.
• Perform literature reviews and summarize findings.
• Lead and mentor junior staff in lab operations.

Skills

Tissue culture

Molecular techniques

Communication

Research methodology

Education

Bachelor/Master in Biology or related field

Job description

You will support the progress of research studies under the Head and Neck Cancer/Nasopharyngeal Cancer Program. You will perform a variety of research activities including but not limited to the following:

1. Tissue Logistics and Processing

• Collection and processing of biological samples (e.g. FFPE, Tissue, Blood).
• Maintain proper tracking of samples, updating of inventories and databases for respective studies.
• Nuclei acid extraction from biological samples.
• Coordinate the submission of biological samples to external partners.

2. Cell culture and Molecular assays

• Generation and maintenance of patient-derived cell lines and/or organoids.
• Perform molecular biology assays e.g. nuclei acid extraction, qPCR, cloning, library preparation, sequencing.
• Perform cell biology assays e.g. drug treatment, cell migration, western blot.
• Participate in experimental troubleshooting and assay optimization.

3. Histology and Microscopy

• Generation of FFPE tissue blocks and tissue sectioning.
• Staining of biological samples by immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence.
• Image acquisition and analysis.

4. Perform tasks and support all aspects of the research project

• Perform literature reviews when required.
• Plan and execute experiments for the assigned studies.
• Monitor and document accurate records of experimental data and observations.
• Evaluate and interpret collected data for oral presentations and scientific manuscripts.
• Report and summarize experimental results and research findings in meetings.
• Support lab and administrative duties in lab operations, e.g. procurement, equipment maintenance, inventories and lab maintenance etc.
• Support and maintain safety documentation and compliance of the lab.
• Lead and mentor junior staff and students in sample processing, experiments, data analysis, and database updates (Senior Research Officer).

5. Perform other related duties

• Other ad-hoc duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor/Master of Science degree in related technical discipline (biology, cell biology, biomedical science, biochemistry or molecular biology).
• Minimum 1 year experience with tissue culture (especially primary cultures) and molecular techniques.
• Experience with wet-lab handling of patient-derived samples is preferred.
• Strong technical and wet lab skills.
• Team player with excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently.
• Responsible, diligent, possess initiative to complete tasks and projects assigned.
• Highly motivated to learn with a genuine interest in cancer research.
• Able to undertake independent research progressively.