Research Fellow, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore

Job Description

The Signature Research Programme in Neuroscience and Behavioural Disorders (NBD) is focused on understanding the structure and function of the nervous system, and the neural mechanisms underlying human neurological, psychiatric and ophthalmological disorders.

The Programme is looking for dynamic Research Fellows to join the newly established Translational Neuroscience Group led by the Principal Investigator Professor Vincenzo De Paola (https://www.depaolalab.com). The group aims to illuminate the mechanisms of human cortical circuit wiring and dysfunction. The ultimate goal is to use this knowledge to help design new treatment strategies for both neurodegenerative (e.g. dementia) and neuropsychiatric conditions (e.g. autism and schizophrenia), and to enhance the brain regenerative potential.

The group uses a multidisciplinary approach at the interface between neuroscience (neuroanatomy, electrophysiology, optogenetics, organotypic cultures), genetics (genomics, snRNAseq), human stem cell and tissue biology (human iPSC-derived neurons transplanted in the mouse brain) and high-resolution optical imaging (structural and functional multiphoton microscopy).

We are looking for highly motivated, persistent and committed researchers with a strong interest in the wiring and dysfunction of human cortical circuits, and in how we can increase and harness their regenerative potential to impact the treatment of both neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric brain disorders.

Duties and responsibilities

• Independently carry out the design, execution and analysis of innovative experimental research.
• Conduct accurate monitoring, documenting and reporting of experimental results and/or research findings.
• Write and review research papers, present research outcomes, conceptualise new ideas and develop plans for independent research which could attract funding.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to undergraduate / medical students and research assistants. 
• Develop contacts and research collaborations within the School and the wider community.
• Perform other related duties incidental to the work described therein.

Job Requirements

• PhD or MD-PhD degree with strong publication records in relevant areas.
• Demonstrated capability of research independence. 
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, management skills and supervision of junior laboratory members. 
• Proven ability to integrate in a team and establish and maintain effective professional working relationships. 
• Possess excellent writing and critical thinking skills, as well as good communication and presentation skills.
• A team player who is able to prioritise, multi-task and work collaboratively in a diverse workforce.

Applicants who are interested in this position, are to send your application to this email address: jacqueline.ho@duke-nus.edu.sg; and should include the following:

• CV
• List of publications
• Statement of research interests

Please also arrange for your referees to send at least two confidential letters of reference to the above-mentioned email address as well.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.