Research Assistant, Effects on Microplastics on Health [LKCMedicine] Full-time

Research Assistant Position

The Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) trains doctors who put patients at the centre of their exemplary care. The School, which offers both undergraduate and graduate programmes, is named after local philanthropist Tan Sri Dato Lee Kong Chian. Established in 2010 by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, in partnership with Imperial College London, LKCMedicine aims to be a model for innovative medical education and a centre for transformative research. The School's primary clinical partner is the National Healthcare Group, a leader in public healthcare recognised for the quality of its medical expertise, facilities and teaching. The School is transitioning to an NTU medical school ahead of the 2028 successful conclusion of the NTU-Imperial partnership to set up a Joint Medical School. In August 2024, we welcomed our first intake of the NTU MBBS programme, that has been recently enhanced to include themes like precision medicine and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare, with an expanded scope in the medical humanities. Graduates from the five-year undergraduate medical degree programme will have a strong understanding of the scientific basis of medicine, with an emphasis on technology, data science and the humanities.

This project investigates the effects of microplastic exposure on gut permeability, inflammation, and microbiome changes using animal models. It aims to understand how microplastics impact gastrointestinal health and contribute to chronic diseases.

We are seeking a Research Assistant to support an innovative project on the health effects of microplastics. The role involves conducting animal studies, analyzing gut permeability, inflammation, and microbiome changes. The position contributes to understanding the long-term health risks associated with microplastic exposure.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct animal studies to assess the effects of microplastics on gut health, including permeability, inflammation, and microbiome composition.
• Collect and analyze biological samples, including stool, blood, and tissue for microbiome, histological, and inflammatory marker assessments.
• Perform experiments to evaluate gut barrier integrity and inflammatory responses.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and ensure compliance with IACUC protocols.
• Prepare and submit IACUC applications and amendments as required.
• Support data analysis, report writing, and preparation of manuscripts for publication.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including microbiologists, pathologists, and bioinformaticians.
• Present findings at internal meetings.

Required educational qualification, experience, skills and competencies:

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
• 1–2 years of experience in animal models, microbiome research, or gastrointestinal health studies is preferred.
• Expertise in animal handling and experimentation.
• Familiarity with techniques to assess gut permeability (e.g., FITC-dextran assay) and inflammation (e.g., cytokine assays).
• Experience in microbiome analysis, including DNA extraction and sequencing.
• Knowledge of histological analysis and tissue staining techniques.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills with the ability to work independently.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Entry-level candidates with relevant skills are encouraged to apply.