Senior/ Research Fellow (NHCS/RF/D)

National Heart Centre Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

National Heart Centre Singapore is seeking a senior researcher to lead independent projects in RNA design, RNA synthesis, and LNP formulation within the Heart Protection theme of NHIS/NHRIS. You will work with clinicians and translational partners to move discoveries toward clinical impact.

The candidate should hold a PhD in Molecular Biology or related fields, with 3+ years of relevant experience, a strong publication record, and proven ability in method development and project leadership.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, RNA Biology, Gene Therapy, Organic Synthesis/LNP Delivery, or related fields.
• At least 3 years’ research experience in relevant areas, including PhD training.
• Strong publication track record and demonstrated experience in method development.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Documented proof of vaccination: MMR vaccination or serological evidence of measles immunity; and Tdap vaccination within last 10 years.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects in RNA design, synthesis, and LNP formulation.
• Oversee in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Mentor junior researchers and collaborate with clinicians and external partners to advance translational research.
• Contribute to manuscripts and grant applications, shaping the scientific direction of the team.

Skills

RNA therapeutics

RNA synthesis

Lipid synthesis

LNP screening

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology / RNA Biology / Gene Therapy / Organic Synthesis/LNP Delivery

Job description

About the role

You will be part of the research team under the Heart Protection theme at the National Heart Research Institute of Singapore (NHRIS), National Heart Centre of Singapore (NHCS), contributing to cutting-edge research focused on strategies to reduce cardiac injury, improve myocardial repair, and develop next-generation therapeutic modalities. As part of a multidisciplinary team with expertise in cardiac pathophysiology, nanomedicine, drug delivery, cell biology, and preclinical animal models, you will work closely with clinicians and translational partners to move scientific discoveries toward real-world clinical application.

We are seeking individuals with strong expertise in RNA therapeutics, RNA synthesis, or lipid synthesis and LNP screening. In this role, you will lead independent research projects in RNA design, synthesis, and LNP formulation, oversee in vitro and in vivo studies, mentor junior researchers, and collaborate with clinicians and external partners to advance translational research. You will also contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and grant applications, playing a key role in shaping the scientific direction of the team.

Job Requirements:

• PhD in Molecular Biology, RNA Biology, Gene Therapy, Organic Synthesis/LNP Delivery, or related fields.

• At least 3 years’ research experience in relevant areas, including PhD training.

• Strong publication track record and demonstrated experience in method development.

• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.

• Documented proof of:

(i) MMR (Mumps, Measles and Rubella) vaccination or serological evidence of measles immunity; and

(ii) Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis) vaccination received within the last 10 years, as required for all healthcare workers under the Healthcare Services Act.

Applicants without these vaccinations may apply if they commit to completing the required vaccination(s) before work commencement, upon successful job offer.