Research Positions – Stem Cells & Neurodegeneration Full-time NEW

Research Positions (Research Assistant / Researcher) – Stem Cells, Functional Genomics & Neurodegeneration

Functional Genomics Unit (FGU), Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM)
Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand

Categories: Life Sciences | Biomedicine | Neuroscience | Stem Cells | Molecular Biology
Disciplines: Functional Genomics, Neurobiology, Cell Biology, Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, Regenerative Medicine

About the Institution and Research Unit

The Functional Genomics Unit (FGU) is one of four research units within the Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University. The unit is led by Dr. Luca Lo Piccolo and focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and brain aging.

Our research integrates genetics, epigenetics, metabolism, and cell biology to investigate how neurons respond to pathological stress and how resilience mechanisms can be enhanced. We use complementary experimental systems, including Drosophila models of human neurological disorders and emerging human stem cell–based platforms.

We are currently establishing a human stem cell facility and developing standardized protocols for patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), including motor neurons, cortical glia, and dopaminergic neurons, to validate discoveries and explore therapeutic strategies. Our long-term goal is to translate mechanistic insights into approaches that protect the aging brain and combat neurodegenerative diseases.

Position Description

We are recruiting motivated researchers to join our interdisciplinary team working on neuronal resilience in aging and neurodegeneration (2 positions available) .

The position level will be determined based on post-PhD experience and interview evaluation:

Research Assistant: starting salary approximately 34,000 THB/month

Researcher: starting salary approximately 41,000 THB/month

Salary and rank will be assigned according to qualifications and experience. Standard university employment benefits are included.

Contracts are annual and renewable. Strong performance can lead to long-term employment and progression within a structured academic research career pathway toward senior research positions.

Research Responsibilities

Successful candidates will contribute to one or more of the following research areas:

• Optimization of motor neuron differentiation from iPSCs for disease modeling and drug screening
• Investigation of molecular and epigenetic mechanisms supporting neuronal resilience during aging and stress
• Analysis of mitochondria–endoplasmic reticulum interactions in neuronal homeostasis
• Testing and validation of small-molecule therapeutic strategies for neuroprotection
• Contribution to protocol development and establishment of stem cell platforms within the laboratory

Candidate Profile

Required qualifications

• PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, molecular genetics, cell biology, or a related biomedical discipline
• Strong background in molecular biology and biochemistry
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment
• Proficiency in spoken and written English

Highly desirable

• Experience with stem cell culture, iPSC generation, or neuronal differentiation
• Experience with epigenetics, cell signaling, or neurobiology
• Previous international research experience (including short-term training)

International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. We aim to foster a diverse and multicultural research environment.

Working Environment

Chiang Mai is a vibrant international city in northern Thailand with a high quality of life and relatively low cost of living compared to many global research hubs. The Faculty of Medicine provides an active academic environment with access to core facilities and collaborative opportunities.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates should submit the following documents in a single PDF file:

• Curriculum vitae (CV) including publication list
• Brief cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience (1–2 pages)
• Contact information for at least two academic referees

Applications and informal inquiries should be sent by email to:

Dr. Luca Lo Piccolo
Functional Genomics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University
Email: [Please click the Apply button for the link or address]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

Tagged as: Life Sciences