Research Fellow (Life Sciences Institute, Neurobiology)

Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUS Career Portal. Please note your application will only be processed if you apply via NUS Career Portal.

NUS Career Portal link: https://careers.nus.edu.sg/job/Research-Fellow-%28Life-Sciences-Institute%2C-Neurobiology%29/31861-en_GB/

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Job Description

The Neurobiology Research Programme at the Life Sciences Institute, led by Professor Rickie Patani, invites applications for a highly motivated and accomplished Research Fellow to join a world-leading laboratory investigating the molecular mechanisms of motor neuron disease, with a particular focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

The Research Fellow will lead a strategically designed research programme examining the intersection between genomic instability and dysregulated RNA metabolism in ALS. A central objective will be to dissect how altered RNA processing — including intron retention — contributes to neurodegenerative vulnerability.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceive, design, and execute high-impact research initiatives aligned with programme strategy.
• Establish, optimise, and oversee complex experimental platforms, ensuring rigorous methodological and analytical standards.
• Lead and mentor junior researchers and students, fostering a collaborative and inclusive laboratory culture.
• Integrate experimental and computational datasets, including high-throughput sequencing and advanced imaging analyses.
• Prepare manuscripts for submission to leading peer-reviewed journals and contribute to competitive grant applications.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
• Contribute to teaching activities within NUS, supporting curriculum development linked to translational neuroscience.
• Maintain exemplary standards of data management, compliance, and laboratory governance.

Qualifications

Applicants should hold a PhD in Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related discipline, with demonstrated expertise in ALS research or related neurodegenerative disorders.

Essential experience includes:

• Human iPSC culture and differentiation into neural subtypes
• Advanced molecular biology techniques
• High-throughput data analysis (e.g., RNA sequencing, imaging datasets)
• Experience with ALS-relevant mouse models

Desirable experience:

• Human post-mortem tissue analysis
• Computational biology and bioinformatics (coding proficiency preferred)
• Supervision of postgraduate or early-career researchers

Candidates must demonstrate:

• A strong publication record in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
• Evidence of scientific independence and international visibility
• Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills
• Commitment to mentoring and fostering an inclusive research environment