Scientist, A*STAR Skin Research Labs

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR invites applications for a highly motivated scientist to join an interdisciplinary lab focused on organotypic skin models and neurovascular unit systems using 3D microphysiological platforms. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in skin biology or neuroscience and will expand into the complementary discipline.

The role emphasizes 3D tissue engineering, advanced imaging, and multi-omics, with opportunities to mentor juniors and publish in top journals.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Science or related disciplines.
• Strong track record of productivity with first-author publications in top journals.
• Deep expertise in either skin biology or neuroscience with a solid foundation in cellular/molecular mechanisms of inflammation and tissue dysfunction.
• Experience with 3D organ-on-a-chip models, stem cell biology/differentiation and gene editing; hands-on with vascularized/immune-competent tissue models, including skin and/or NVU models.
• Proficiency in advanced imaging techniques (confocal microscopy, image analysis) and molecular biology methods.
• Experience in single-cell RNA-seq data analysis and data interpretation for figures in publications.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, design/execute complex experiments, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Flexible, proactive problem-solver with strong collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments for 3D organotypic model development, including hiPSC culture/differentiation.
• Integrate epithelial, stromal, endothelial, immune and neural components into MPSs.
• Perform advanced tissue characterization using histology, immunostaining, fluorescence, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, qPCR and multi-omics.
• Analyze data, prepare high-quality figures, contribute to manuscript writing and present at lab meetings.
• Stay current with literature, supervise junior researchers, ensure rigorous data management, safety, and lab organization.

Skills

Skin biology or Neuroscience expertise

3D organ-on-a-chip models

hiPSC culture & differentiation

Gene editing

Vascularized/immune-competent tissue

Imaging analysis

Single-cell RNA-seq data analysis

Independent project management

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology or Biological Science

Tools

Confocal microscopy

Flow cytometry

Histology

Molecular biology techniques

Image analysis

Job description

Job Summary

We are looking for a highly motivated, resourceful, and independent scientist to join our interdisciplinary lab, contributing to projects spanning organotypic skin models and neurovascular unit (NVU) models. Candidates with deep expertise in either skin biology or neuroscience are encouraged to apply, with the opportunity to broaden their expertise into the other discipline. The work will focus on mechanisms of skin health, aging and inflammation, and on neurovascular development and dysfunction, using advanced 3D microphysiological systems (MPSs).

We are looking for a highly motivated, resourceful, and independent scientist to join our interdisciplinary lab, contributing to projects spanning organotypic skin models and neurovascular unit (NVU) models. Candidates with deep expertise in either skin biology or neuroscience are encouraged to apply, with the opportunity to broaden their expertise into the other discipline. The work will focus on mechanisms of skin health, aging and inflammation, and on neurovascular development and dysfunction, using advanced 3D microphysiological systems (MPSs).

Please reach out to Giulia ([e-mail]) if you are interested in this position.

Roles And Responsibilities

The candidate will design and execute experiments for 3D organotypic model development, including hiPSC culture and differentiation, integration of epithelial, stromal, endothelial, immune and neural components into MPSs, and gene-editing approaches. The role involves advanced tissue characterization using histology, immunostaining, fluorescence and confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, qPCR and multi-omics, as well as independent data analysis and interpretation, presentation in lab meetings, preparation of high-quality figures and contribution to manuscript writing. The candidate is expected to stay up to date with advances in the field, maintain a strong knowledge of relevant literature, contribute to collaborative projects, supervise junior researchers and ensure rigorous documentation, data management, safety compliance and overall laboratory organization.

Requirements

• PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Science or related disciplines
• Strong track record of productivity, including first-author publications in top-cited journals
• Deep expertise in either skin biology or neuroscience, with a strong foundation in cellular/molecular mechanisms relevant to inflammation and tissue dysfunction
• Expertise in 3D organ-on-a-chip models, stem cell biology/differentiation and gene editing; hands-on experience with vascularized and/or immune-competent tissue models, ideally including skin organotypic systems and/or neurovascular unit models
• Proficiency in advanced imaging techniques, including confocal microscopy and image analysis, histology and molecular biology techniques
• Experience in single-cell RNA-seq data analysis, including data interpretation and figure preparation for scientific publications
• Demonstrated ability to work independently - designing and executing complex experimental protocols, managing multiple projects, and delivering on schedule in a fast-paced environment
• Flexible, fast-learning mindset with resourceful problem-solving skills, comfortable adapting across disciplines and troubleshooting roadblocks with a positive, proactive attitude
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with attention to detail and commitment to scientific rigor