Research Fellow

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

The Neuroscience and Behavioural Disorders (NBD) Programme is focused on understanding the structure and function of the nervous system, and the neural mechanisms underlying human neurological, psychiatric and eye disorders.

The De Paola Lab at Duke-NUS Medical School is seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow or Senior Research Fellow with strong in vivo expertise to join the team studying mechanisms and repair of human cortical circuit dysfunction in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions, such as Down syndrome (Lattke et al. Nature, under revision, Bass et al, iScience, under revision; Peter, Real et al, Reviews common under revision; Real et al Science 2018).

Our research combines in vivo and in vitro experimental platforms to explore mechanisms of synaptic and neural network activity dysfunction in the human neocortex. Using human iPSC-derived cortical neurons, functional loss-of-function approaches, single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq), xenotransplantation, and advanced in vivo imaging (e.g., 2-photon calcium imaging), the aim is to uncover key pathways driving circuit pathology and identify targets for therapeutic intervention in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative brain conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently carry out the planning and executing of research projects.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to a small research team of junior researchers, graduate and/or undergraduate students.
• Perform in vivo experiments which includes imaging and viral/drug/ASO delivery.
• Identify and develop suitable approaches for the collection and analysis of data.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of all findings, and ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times.
• Write and review research papers, present research outcomes, conceptualise new ideas and develop plans for independent research which could have a considerable influence and impact on the relevant field attracting research funding.
• Develop contacts and research collaborations within the School and the wider community.
• Perform other related duties incidental to the work described therein.

• PhD or MD degree with at least 3 years of relevant research experience and strong first-author publication record in relevant areas.
• Prior experience with human stem cell neurobiology and mouse models is advantageous.
• Have experience with in vivo calcium imaging (preferably 2-photon), stereotactic surgery and drug delivery, gene expression analysis (e.g. snRNAseq) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASO).
• Demonstrated capability of research independence.
• Have strategic thinking, management skills and experience in supervision of junior lab members.
• Possess strong interpersonal communications skills with excellent writing, oral communication and presentation skills.
• A strong team player who is open-minded, energetic, highly motivated and can work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team and diverse workforce.

Why Join Us

• Work at the forefront of human circuit neuroscience and regenerative research.
• Collaborate across basic, translational, and clinical institutions in Singapore.
• Access state-of-the-art core facilities adjacent to Singapore General Hospital.

How to Apply

Combine the following documents into a single PDF and send to Vincenzo ([email protected]):

• CV
• List of publications
• Statement of research interests (linking your experience to our lab's focus)

Please also arrange for two confidential reference letters to be sent directly to Vincenzo.

Positions will remain open until filled. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.