Research Fellow

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:

Job Description

The Signature Research Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) aims to pioneer the development and discovery of new and more effective methods for the detection, treatment, prevention and control of new and emerging pathogens. EID research work also leads to discovery and testing of new diagnostic tests, treatments and control strategies (such as vaccines). EID is also working towards developing partnerships throughout the region with the development of laboratory and epidemiologic capacity, training scientists and physicians from partnering countries to make Singapore a viable surveillance hub for emerging infectious diseases.

Assistant Professor Ruklanthi de Alwis's team is searching for a passionate Research Fellow to join her team for an infectious disease antibody adventure.

Her team works on different aspects of antibody and B cells responses to infectious diseases (predominantly arboviruses and respiratory viruses), ranging from sero-surveillance, antibody diagnostic development, mucosal immunity, B cell diversity to monoclonal antibody discovery and development.

The primary role of the position is to lead and conduct research projects around characterizing antibody responses, B cell receptor cell evolution (host genomics) and development of monoclonal antibody from humans and in mouse models against viral pathogens. The position will work amongst a diverse multinational research team and entail research, training, and partner engagement in the following areas but not limited to the following:

• Work closely with Assistant Professor Ruklanthi de Alwis to drive projects involving development of therapeutic antibodies against viral pathogens.
• Work closely with local Singapore and regional partners to conduct single cell transcriptomics, host genomics, BCR sequencing, and bioinformatic anlaysis to rapidly screen and identify antigen-specific monoclonal antibodies.
• Support research in sero-surveillance of viral pathogens with a focus on both laboratory and bioinformatic analyses to generate high-quality research data.
• Supervise, train and coordinate work of designated staff on trainings, and research projects.
• Contribute to scientific research publication writing.
• Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein, including contributing to occasional admin and coordination activities.

Job Requirements

• PhD in immunology or molecular biology related to infectious diseases (specifically viruses).
• Prior experience with single cell transcriptomics of immune cells is required.
• Possess good technical understanding of infectious diseases, immunology and molecular biology is required.
• Prior experience with B cells and antibody research is highly desirable.
• Prior experience in isolating, expressing and characterizing monoclonal antibodies is preferred.
• Prior experience of training others in scientific research and protocols is highly recommended.
• Prior experience working with mouse models is preferred but not necessary.
• Able to undertake research assignments with minimal supervision.
• Able to travel occasionally for conferences, project sites and meetings with collaborators.
• Possess strong interpersonal, writing and presentation skills, with a passion for learning.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Salary and benefits are commensurate with qualifications and experience.