Research Associate (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

The School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CCEB) at NTU Singapore, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), is part of Singapore Indoor Farming System (SingFarm)—a CREATE-NRF programme focused on building a sustainable, data-driven food production model with strong industry relevance to contribute Singapore’s ambition in achieving 20 per cent local production of its fiber (vegetables, mushrooms etc.) by 2035. The candidate would be working in a multinational team at the forefront of Singapore’s agricultural innovation and food security.

The position of Research Associate will focus on diseases encountered under conditions characteristic for plants grown in indoor farming systems (high humidity, dense planting, limited crop rotation, and recirculating water systems). By coupling disease screens to metabolomic data generated in the project, the aim is to identify plant compounds linked to resistance. The final goal is to engineer metabolite profiles to obtain optimal disease resistance. The work is linked to other work packages related with disease resistance and metabolomics and requires strong collaborative and interdisciplinary skills.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Setting up disease assays for relevant pathogens 

• Screening of germplasm and populations for disease resistance

• Linking disease data with metabolic data

• Optimizing metabolite content through environmental cues and/or metabolic engineering

Job Requirements: 

• Master’s degree in Plant pathology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology and/or a related field

• Strong biochemistry and plant pathology background

• Strong interdisciplinary and analytical skills

• Collaborative and proactive working attitude

• Open and clear communication

We seek a diverse and inclusive workforce and is committed to equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from all and recruit on the basis of merit, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, marital status and family responsibilities, or disability.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Hiring Institution: NTU