Research Officer (DMODL)

You will support the progress of research studies under the Head and Neck Cancer/Nasopharyngeal Cancer Program. You will perform a variety of research activities including but not limited to the following:

1. Tissue Logistics and Processing:
- Collection and processing of biological samples (e.g. FFPE, Tissue, Blood).
- Maintain proper tracking of samples, updating of inventories and databases for respective studies.
- Nuclei acid extraction from biological samples.
- Coordinate the submission of biological samples to external partners.

2. Cell culture and Molecular assays:
- Generation and maintenance of patient-derived cell lines and/or organoids.
- Perform molecular biology assays e.g. nuclei acid extraction, qPCR, cloning, library preparation, sequencing.
- Perform cell biology assays e.g. drug treatment, cell migration, western blot.
- Participate in experimental troubleshooting and assay optimization.

3. Histology and Microscopy:
- Generation of FFPE tissue blocks and tissue sectioning.
- Staining of biological samples by immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence.
- Image acquisition and analysis.

4. Perform tasks and support all aspects of the research project:
- Perform literature reviews when required.
- Plan and execute experiments for the assigned studies.
- Monitor and document accurate records of experimental data and observations.
- Evaluate and interpret collected data for oral presentations and scientific manuscripts.
- Report and summarize experimental results and research findings in meetings.
- Support lab and administrative duties in lab operations, e.g. procurement, equipment maintenance, inventories and lab maintenance etc.
- Support and maintain safety documentation and compliance of the lab.
- Lead and mentor junior staff and students in sample processing, experiments, data analysis, and database updates (Senior Research Officer).

5. Perform other related duties:
- Other ad-hoc duties as assigned.

Requirements:
- Bachelor/Master of Science degree in related technical discipline (biology, cell biology, biomedical science, biochemistry or molecular biology).
- Minimum 1 year experience with tissue culture (especially primary cultures) and molecular techniques.
- Experience with wet-lab handling of patient-derived samples is preferred.
- Strong technical and wet lab skills.
- Team player with excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently.
- Responsible, diligent, possess initiative to complete tasks and projects assigned.
- Highly motivated to learn with a genuine interest in cancer research.
- Able to undertake independent research progressively.