Research Assistant (Natural Sciences & Science Education Department) [NIE]

The National Institute of Education invites suitable applications for the position of Research Assistant on a 6-month contract at the Natural Sciences & Science Education Department .

Project Title: Multiplexed fluorescent nanosensor array for AI-enabled rapid gut health biomarker detection

Project Introduction: We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our team on a medical technology translation project. Our work focuses on the technical and commercial advancement of a breakthrough optical nanosensor platform, moving it from the laboratory into a practical clinical, AI-enabled diagnostic tool. By developing and deploying multiplexed sensor arrays that rapidly screen for critical gut health and inflammatory biomarkers simultaneously, we aim to achieve functional assessment of gut health. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the cutting edge of deep tech nano-biotechnology, while actively participating in real-world commercialization pathways and venture design. Strong performance opens future pathways ahead including potential contract renewal, direct involvement in spin-off venture conversion, or mentorship towards PhD graduate study in chemical biology and biosensing.

Requirements:

Essential

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related field.

Careful and systematic in conducting laboratory work.

Reliable and able to adhere closely to established experimental protocols.

Proactive and willing to learn, with the ability to work independently after appropriate training.

Demonstrates a strong interest in and passion for deep-tech commercialization and venture design.

Preferred

Hands-on experience working in a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory environment, including the operation and maintenance of Class II Biological Safety Cabinets (BSC).

Prior experience with biological assays, biofluids, or metabolite biosensing.

Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Origin, Python, etc.).

Familiarity with spectroscopic techniques (e.g., fluorescence, Raman spectrophotometry, and UV-Vis spectrophotometry).

Prior experience or exposure to deep-tech commercialization and translation, such as participation in entrepreneurial bootcamps, technology transfer projects, or startup environments.

Responsibilities:

Assay & Nanosensor Testing : Conduct systematic optical assays, including fluorescence and absorbance measurements, to evaluate nanosensor array responses to target gut health biomarkers and metabolites.

BSL-2 Laboratory Operations: Perform biofluid and chemical preparation, routine biological sample assays, while maintaining strict BSL-2 biosafety protocols and proper use of Biosafety Cabinets (BSC).

Data Analysis & Protocol Optimization: Record, analyze, and document experimental dataset reproducibility to support device optimization and translational milestones.

Venture & Clinical Integration: Assist with translating bench data for venture design workshops, startup commercialization activities, and clinical partner updates.

Lab Maintenance: Assist with baseline equipment setup, reagent inventory, and biosafety compliance in the laboratory.

Any other administrative duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator.

Application

Applicants (external and internal) will apply via Workday. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Closing Date

Closing date for advertisements will be set to 14 calendar days from date of posting.

Hiring Institution: NIE