Seeking Research Assistant in Transmission Electron Microscopy at the Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore

The Mechanobiology Institute (MBI) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is a leading multi-disciplinary institute devoted to developing new paradigms for understanding biological functions in health and diseases from the perspective of cell, tissue and organ mechanics/dynamics and mechano-signal transduction. The institute operates on a fully integrated open-lab philosophy, with an extensive infrastructure supported by core facilities dedicated to technology such as state-of-the-art light microscopy, nano- and micro- fabrication, and computing.

Job description

We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join our research team, focusing on the morphological characterization of biological samples using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This role offers hands-on experience in TEM sample preparation, imaging, and integration with other bioimaging techniques. The successful candidate will gain skills across the full workflow—from preparing samples to capturing and analyzing high-quality images—while contributing to impactful scientific research. In-house training will be provided for all TEM techniques.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare biological samples for TEM, including fixation, staining, sectioning, embedding, and mounting optimized for high-quality imaging
  • Perform TEM imaging and contribute to research data acquisition and analysis
  • Provide technical guidance to research teams in TEM sample preparation and bioimaging workflows
  • Maintain detailed documentation of sample preparation protocols, imaging conditions, and experimental results

Qualifications & Experiences

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field
  • Experience with eukaryotic cell culture and standard cell biology techniques is required
  • Some hands-on experience in TEM sample preparation, along with basic experience in TEM data acquisition and analysis, is an advantage
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow established laboratory protocols
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
  • (Preferred) Prior research or laboratory experience, particularly in biomedical sciences
  • (Preferred) Familiarity with TEM protocols for mammalian and eukaryotic biological samples is desirable

To apply

Interested candidates should apply online at the following link: https://careers.nus.edu.sg/job/Research-Assistant-%28Mechanobiology-Institute%29/30003-en_GB/.

Applications should include:

  1. A resume
  2. A cover letter describing relevant experience in cell biology, TEM, and bioimaging
  3. Contact details for two to three professional references

This position is ideal for individuals eager to develop specialized expertise in microscopy techniques and contribute meaningfully to collaborative scientific research. Salary and benefits will be commensurable to the educational qualifications and working experience of candidates. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.