Description

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD-trained scientist to join the laboratory of Precision Disease Therapeutics at the Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS).

Our lab focuses on therapeutic target discovery and translational development for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), with a strong emphasis on nucleic acid therapeutics, including siRNA.

We have established a unique platform that integrates patient-derived multi-omics datasets with in vivo high-throughput functional genetic screening and human in vitro disease models. This platform enables systematic identification and validation of clinically actionable therapeutic targets.

The successful candidate will play a key role in driving target discovery and validation programs and contributing to the development of next-generation therapeutics for MASLD.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and drive therapeutic target discovery and validation projects
• Design and execute experiments integrating:
  • Patient-derived omics data
  • In vivo functional genetic screening
  • Human in vitro disease models

• Perform and oversee in vivo studies using MASLD mouse models
• Develop and optimize hepatocyte-based in vitro systems, including lipotoxicity and inflammatory models
• Conduct gene perturbation studies (e.g., siRNA, shRNA) and evaluate therapeutic efficacy
• Interpret complex datasets and establish mechanistic links between targets and disease biology
• Work with internal teams and external collaborators (including CROs) to advance projects
• Contribute to project strategy, decision-making, and go/no-go milestones
• Prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations

Core Competencies:

• Drug Discovery Expertise: Strong track record in early discovery, from target identification to validation, hit-to-lead and preclinical assessment.
• RNA Therapeutics (preferred): Hands-on expertise with ASO and siRNA platforms, including design, in vitro/in vivo validation, and optimization for metabolic disease applications.
• Target Validation & Disease Biology: Experienced in establishing mechanistic links between targets and disease biology, with emphasis on MASH and metabolic disorders.
• Working with CROs: Effective in managing CRO collaborations, ensuring study design quality, data integrity, and timely execution of in vitro/in vivo experiments.
• Analytical & Critical Thinking: Skilled in data interpretation, decision-making, and problem-solving, enabling robust conclusions and informed go/no-go project decisions.
• In Vitro & In Vivo Models: Proficient in cellular assays, screening compounds, critical assay flow scheme design, rodent disease models, and translational PD marker strategies relevant to disease.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Experience working closely with medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and safety and toxicology teams to advance therapeutic candidates.
• Scientific Communication: Strong publication record, conference presentations, and ability to translate complex science for diverse stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in MASLD/MASH or related metabolic diseases
• Experience in hepatocyte biology or liver disease models
• Experience in data collection, management, and analysis using software such as SPSS, R, or Python.  
• Proficient in conducting literature reviews and synthesizing research findings.  
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.  
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present research findings.  
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining data accuracy and confidentiality.  

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work on a patient-driven in vivo functional target discovery platform
• Exposure to end-to-end therapeutic development, from target discovery to preclinical validation
• Collaborative environment with clinicians, computational scientists, and translational researchers

Interested applicants are invited to send:  

• Resume 
• Contacts of minimum two referees 
• A brief statement explaining research achievements (1 to 2 pages)  
  We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.  

About the Genome Institute of Singapore  

The Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS, A*STAR) is the national flagship program for genomic science in Singapore. GIS is located within the Biopolis, the biomedical research of hub of Singapore which houses, in close proximity, research institutes under the Agency of Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), biotech startups and international pharmaceutical corporations. The applicant would have the opportunity to interact with scientists, informaticians, clinicians, engineers and other professionals from all over the world in a vibrant, intellectually stimulating and scientifically curious setting. You will be part of a vibrant scientific community where you will have the opportunity to share your ideas and demonstrate your skills and passion for scientific research. You can find out more about the Genome Institute of Singapore online: http://www.gis.a-star.edu.sg  

The Genome Institute of Singapore offers a competitive salary and a complete benefits package that ensures a very high living standard in one of the most modern cities in the world.  

Why Singapore?  

Singapore is a city-state with one of the highest standards of living in the world seeking to become an international hub for the biomedical sciences. Singapore is a vibrant, tropical city, with rich Asian heritage and modern style of living, an ideal gateway to explore Asia, providing a unique experience and an excellent quality of life.  

Contact and further information  

Interested candidates are invited to send a cover letter stating your research interests and experience, curriculum vitae, and the names and email addresses of three references to LEE Yong-An (Lee_Yong-An@a-star.edu.sg)