Research Assistant/Associate, Infection Biology, Virology and Protein Lipidation [LKCMedicine]

The Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) trains doctors who put patients at the centre of their exemplary care. The School, which offers both undergraduate and graduate programmes, is named after local philanthropist Tan Sri Dato Lee Kong Chian. Established in 2010 by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, in partnership with Imperial College London, LKCMedicine aims to be a model for innovative medical education and a centre for transformative research. The School’s primary clinical partner is the National Healthcare Group, a leader in public healthcare recognised for the quality of its medical expertise, facilities and teaching. The School is transitioning to an NTU medical school ahead of the 2028 successful conclusion of the NTU-Imperial partnership to set up a Joint Medical School. In August 2024, we welcomed our first intake of the NTU MBBS programme, that has been recently enhanced to include themes like precision medicine and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare, with an expanded scope in the medical humanities. Graduates from the five-year undergraduate medical degree programme will have a strong understanding of the scientific basis of medicine, with an emphasis on technology, data science and the humanities.

The Mesquita Lab explores how pathogens remodel host lipid membranes and how cells respond to this damage, with a particular focus on protein lipidation (S-acylation) as a regulator of infection, immunity, and organelle function. We draw on approaches from cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, virology, advanced microscopy, genomics, chemical biology, and structural biology. While we are primarily a wet lab, we actively welcome applications from computational scientists interested in modeling lipid biology, protein structure and interactions, and Cell/infection dynamics. Our aim is to uncover the fundamental mechanisms of membrane biology and connect these insights to therapeutic strategies against infection, inflammation, and related pathologies. As the lab is being established at LKCMedicine, new members will have the opportunity to join at an early stage, contributing to projects grounded in solid preliminary findings while helping shape a collaborative and innovative research environment. The lab fosters connections across NTU and LKCMedicine, as well as through an extensive international network of partners.

We are looking for a Research Assistant/Associate to support lab set-up and ongoing projects on host–pathogen interactions, lipid membranes, and protein lipidation (S-acylation). The role combines experimental research with laboratory organization and administration. The Research Assistant/Associate will help establish new workflows, implement safety protocols, and support day-to-day research activities. This position is central to building the foundation of the lab, ensuring smooth scientific progress and compliance with institutional standards. Graduate and Master’s students interested in pursuing a PhD at LKCMedicine are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform molecular and cell biology experiments, including mammalian cell culture, transfection, and infection models.
• Support projects on protein lipidation (S-acylation) using mutagenesis, biochemistry, microscopy, and related assays.
• Contribute to bioinformatic analyses of protein structure, dynamics, and genomic data.
• Implement SOPs, follow biosafety guidelines, and carry out risk assessments.
• Manage daily lab operations, including equipment upkeep, ordering supplies, and liaising with vendors.
• Maintain plasmid stocks, prepare reagents, and organize sample storage.
• Assist with lab set-up, workflows, and documentation for new equipment.
• Keep accurate records in electronic lab notebooks and help with reports and figures.
• Collaborate with students and fellows, supporting a team-oriented environment.
• Ensure safety and compliance across all lab activities.

Key Competencies And Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture and basic molecular biology is recommended.
• Familiarity with microscopy or biochemical assays is an advantage.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to implement SOPs and manage lab operations.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work both independently and in a team.
• Motivation to learn and contribute to both research and lab development.
• Entry-level candidates are welcome to apply.

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

Hiring Institution: LKC