Job Description

The Mechanobiology Institute (MBI) at the National University of Singapore is a multidisciplinary institute dedicated to developing new paradigms in biomedical research. We focus on the quantitative analysis of dynamic functional processes in pathogenesis (ranging from bacterial to cancer), tissue regeneration, and function.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow (Research Fellow) to join the collaborative efforts of Asst. Prof. Jennifer Young\'s Soft Nano-Biomaterials group and Assoc. Prof. Guillaume Thibault\'s Lipid Regulation and Cell Stress group. Our goal is to characterize and replicate the nanoscale extracellular matrix (ECM) properties of healthy and diseased tissues to enhance our understanding of cellular behavior and clinical outcomes in metabolic diseases. Despite the critical role of the ECM in most diseases, its nanoscale properties remain poorly understood, posing a significant barrier to understanding ECM-directed cellular behavior for clinical applications.

This specific project focuses on matrix-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) dysfunction in aging as part of the newly funded project "Mechanobiology in Development, Aging, and Disease." The selected fellow will explore and elucidate the mechanobiology of cell-ECM interactions and intracellular mechanisms, particularly uncovering new aspects of ECM-ER crosstalk. The project will involve exploring ECM-ER-plasma membrane (ECM-ER-PM) interactions in aging using various tools available in both laboratories to image the ER in young and aged cells subjected to different ECMs. This will provide a platform to elucidate ECM-ER-PM signaling pathways using a high-throughput genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screen. The project aims to identify how ECM stiffness and composition affect ER function in aging and discover novel cell receptors and signaling pathways mediating ECM-ER interactions in organoids.

MBI and NUS offer state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to EM and high-resolution imaging, supporting the fellow in training, setup, and execution of the project.

Qualifications

Candidates with a PhD in engineering, biology, biomedical sciences, or related fields are encouraged to apply. A strong background in ECM/ tissue biology, cell biology, molecular biology, and/or image analysis is required. Prior experience with ECM and/or tissue preparation is advantageous but not mandatory. The candidate should possess excellent communication skills and the ability to engage in collaborative research in a highly interdisciplinary environment.

Salary and benefits are commensurable to educational qualifications and working experience of the candidates.

To apply

Interested applicants should apply online and upload the following with their online application: 1) a brief description of research interests and experience, and 2) a full CV, with the names and contacts (email addresses) of two to three references. Scientific inquiries about this position can be addressed directly to Asst. Prof. Jennifer Young or Assoc. Prof. Guillaume Thibault via email.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

More Information

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: Mechanobiology Institute

Department : Mechanobiology Institute

Employee Referral Eligible: No

Job requisition ID : 23039

National University of Singapore