Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUS Career Portal. Please note your application will only be processed if you apply via NUS Career Portal.

NUS Career Portal link: https://careers.nus.edu.sg/job/Research-Assistant-%28Food-Science-&-Technology%29/32923-en_GB/st=09C88E506CCD9F25A7CCC58EEB9A1C639958E058

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Job Description

The successful candidate will work with Pang Bo on the development of high-moisture extruded plant protein systems under a project on improving the structure, texture, and digestibility of extruded plant proteins.

The main responsibilities of the position include:

Independently operating, maintaining, assembling/disassembling, and cleaning pilot-scale high-moisture extrusion equipment
Assisting in the formulation development and processing optimization of plant protein-based materials
Conducting sample preparation, in vitro digestion studies, and basic compositional analyses
Supporting structural and physicochemical characterization of extruded protein systems using analytical techniques such as microscopy, FTIR, texture analysis, and rheology
Recording, organizing, and analyzing experimental data and maintaining proper laboratory documentation
Assisting in laboratory management, inventory control, and compliance with laboratory safety procedures
Supporting other research-related activities assigned by the Principal Investigator and supervising researchers

Qualifications

Master's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Biomaterials, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Materials Science, or other closely related disciplines. Experience in food processing, protein science, extrusion technology, or biomaterial research would be advantageous.

Skills:

Capability to independently operate, assemble/disassemble, clean, troubleshoot, and maintain high-moisture extrusion systems or related processing equipment
Good organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong commitment to laboratory safety and proper documentation practices
Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
Good written and verbal communication skills in English, including the ability to read scientific literature and prepare experimental reports
Familiarity with protein, polymer, or material characterization techniques is an advantage

Experience:

Prior research or laboratory experience in food processing, extrusion technology, protein chemistry, biomaterials, or related areas is preferred
Experience with pilot-scale equipment operation and routine maintenance will be highly advantageous
Hands-on experience with analytical and characterization techniques such as texture analysis, FTIR, microscopy, SEM, rheology, thermal analysis, or protein characterization is desirable
Experience in experimental design, data recording, and laboratory inventory management is preferred

Research Assistant (Food Science & Technology)