A*STAR

Scientist / Senior Scientist (Infectious Diseases), Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics

A*STAR
ResearchSingaporeOnsitePosted 1 day ago

About the role

AI summarised

Senior scientist role within Singapore's national RNA therapeutics initiative, focused on developing mRNA vaccines and immunotherapies for infectious diseases from discovery through IND-enabling stages. The position involves hands-on lab work, assay development, regulatory documentation, and cross-functional collaboration in a biotech-like translational environment.

ResearchOnsite

Key Responsibilities

  • Support and execute the Vaccines R&D strategy in a creative, innovative manner
  • Develop and optimise laboratory methods for characterisation of the different RNA therapeutic modalities (e.g., mRNA, circRNA, saRNA, gRNA), focusing on protein translation and stability
  • Design and conduct in vitro assays to assess vaccine-specific responses and identify and quantify cellular targets and efficacy readouts for infectious diseases
  • Independently write protocols, procedures and develop and maintain SOPs to ensure reproducibility, compliance, and readiness for IND submission, contribute to CMC documentation
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to support internal decision-making and external regulatory submissions. Communicate results orally or written, internally or externally
  • Collaborate with scientists across multiple functions
  • Maintain accurate records using LIMS/ELN systems to support data integrity and reproducibility
  • Support tech transfer activities to external CDMOs, including preparation of reports, training, and troubleshooting support

Requirements

  • PhD in Immunology or a related field with minimum of 8+ years of experience. Industry experience preferred
  • Detailed knowledge in immunology and cellular biology, mechanisms underlying autoimmune, allergy and inflammatory diseases with deep expertise in T-cell function and with emphasis on cytokine signalling, tolerance mechanisms, and immunopathology
  • Proven proficiency in immunophenotyping, particularly extensive hands-on experience with multi-color flow cytometry including panel design, staining fluency, compensation, and data analysis/interpretation
  • Strong record of accomplishment in advancing immunology-focused therapeutics and leading translational/biomarker initiatives
  • Proven ability to develop, validate and troubleshoot assays
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional, fast-paced multidisciplinary environment to effectively deliver results within reasonably established timelines
  • Knowledge and experience with in vivo models
  • Expertise developing mRNA-LNP therapeutics is highly desirable
  • Ability to work well with CROs