Research Pathologist (Cancer Science Institute)

National University of Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university in Singapore is seeking a Research Pathologist to provide expert pathology input supporting translational research focused on solid tumors. The successful candidate will work on biomarker development, oversee pathology workflows, and engage in clinical trial-related activities. Essential qualifications include an MBBS or MD, with preferred experience in diagnostic pathology techniques. The role emphasizes collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and offers opportunities for scientific contribution and mentorship.

Qualifications

• Experience as a diagnostic histopathologist or surgical pathologist.
• Hands-on experience in diagnostic molecular pathology techniques.
• Strong understanding of disease pathogenesis and pathological processes.

Responsibilities

• Perform analysis of clinical specimens for research.
• Provide expert scoring and interpretation of pathology assays.
• Lead pathology-based research platform development.
• Contribute scientific leadership to research projects.
• Support clinical trial-related pathology activities.
• Supervise and train junior staff in histopathology.

Skills

Independent work

Excellent communication skills

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Data interpretation

Education

MBBS or MD degree

Tools

Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

Laser capture microdissection

Tissue microarrays

Job description

Company Description

The National University of Singapore is the national research university of Singapore. Founded in 1905 as the Straits Settlements and the Federated Malay States Government Medical School, NUS is the oldest higher education institution in Singapore

Job Description

The Research Pathologist will provide expert pathology input to support and advance translational research within the Experimental Therapeutics Program, with a primary focus on solid tumors, particularly breast cancer and nasopharyngeal cancer. The role is integral to bridging clinical pathology with laboratory-based discovery, biomarker development, and therapeutic innovation, contributing to precision oncology and investigator-initiated clinical trials.

Research Support and Pathology Expertise

• Perform detailed analysis and interpretation of morphological features of human clinical specimens for research purposes.
• Provide expert scoring and interpretation of histological and molecular pathology assays, including immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH), and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).
• Correlate pathological findings with molecular, genomic, and clinical data to support biomarker discovery and validation.
• Lead the development, optimization, and validation of pathology-based research platforms, including but not limited to:
  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays
  • Construction and utilization of tissue microarrays (TMAs)
  • Laser capture microdissection (LCM)
  • Automated staining platforms (autostainers)
  • Digital slide scanning and imaging systems
  • Advanced light, fluorescence, and confocal microscopy systems
  • Ensure quality control, standardization, and reproducibility of pathology workflows in compliance with research and institutional standards.

Project Leadership and Scientific Contribution

• Provide scientific leadership for pathology-driven and pathology-enabled research projects within the laboratory and across collaborative programs.
• Contribute pathology expertise to translational studies involving novel therapeutics, predictive biomarkers, liquid biopsy-correlated tissue analyses, and pharmacogenetic research.
• Support clinical trial-related pathology activities, including biomarker-driven patient stratification and correlative studies.

Supervision, Training, and Mentorship

• Supervise, mentor, and train junior research staff, students, and fellows in histopathology techniques, assay interpretation, and good laboratory practices.
• Foster a culture of scientific rigor, critical thinking, and continuous learning within the pathology component of the program.

Scientific Communication and Grants

• Assist in the preparation, review, and compilation of manuscripts, abstracts, reports, and grant applications.
• Contribute to data interpretation, figure preparation, and pathology-related sections of scientific publications and funding proposals.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with clinicians, molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinical trial teams in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Provide pathology consultation and input to internal and external collaborators as required.

Requirements

Essential Qualifications

• MBBS or MD degree.
Preferred Experience and Skills
• Several years of experience as a diagnostic histopathologist or surgical pathologist.
• Hands-on experience in one or more of the following:
  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
  • Laser capture microdissection
  • Construction and analysis of tissue microarrays
  • Diagnostic molecular pathology or molecular biology techniques
• Strong understanding of disease pathogenesis and pathological processes at the tissue and cellular level.

Competencies and Attributes

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple projects.
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
• Strong scientific writing, reporting, and data interpretation capabilities.
• Demonstrated collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and translational research teams.
• High level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to research integrity.