Job Description

The National University of Singapore invites applications for one highly motivated Research Fellow specializing in the study of mechanisms of preterm labour using uteroplacental cells and tissues in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. A/Prof Chan Shiao-Yng’s (obgchan@nus.edu.sg) laboratory is involved in understanding placental and fetal development in normal and pathological pregnancies, preterm labour and implications for the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). The appointment will be for 1 year in the first instance, with the possibility of extension to 3 years depending on progress and available funding.

Purpose of the post

We are seeking highly motivated PhD graduates with a background in molecular biology, physiology and cell culture with an interest in endocrinology, pregnancy and in utero development. The successful candidate will help to design experiments, conduct experiments, analyse data, write papers and grants.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will undertake research aimed at exploring the endocrinology and metabolism of uteroplacental tissues. The candidate will be able to:

1. use primary tissue cultures, various gene expression methods and bioinformatics for projects in translational research and molecular diagnostics;
2. provide administrative and secretarial support to the project, such as organizing regular meetings to maintain regular communication with other members of the research team and collaborate with the study sites;
3. undertake the day-to-day running of the project at the study site, e.g. collaborate with team members at the study sites, recruitment, data collection at hospitals/participants’ homes (whenever relevant/necessary);
4. conduct literature searches, using SPSS to enter data, and analyse data, as well as assist in preparing both progress and final reports of the project;
5. maintain the highest standard of professional conduct and record keeping in accordance with policies and procedures;
6. assist with any other duties of a similar nature that are delegated by the PI.

Qualifications

The candidates are required to demonstrate that they

• have the relevant scientific understanding and laboratory experience;
• have a proven track record in research and laboratory work in the form of publications in top English language journals;
• have the ability to communicate in good written and spoken English;
• are able to work independently and in a team, have an investigative nature, attention to detail; and
• have previous experience in uteroplacental or pregnancy research (highly preferred).

Remuneration will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Please submit your application supported by a detailed CV (indicating current/expected salary, including personal particulars, academic and employment history, and complete list of publications/oral presentations, information on years of experience in research & laboratory work and full contact information of 3 referees).

We regret to inform you that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.