Research Fellow, NUCOHS

Research Fellow – Microvascular Anastomosis Device Development

Overview

Reporting to the Principal Investigator, you will support the development and validation of a novel mechanical vessel coupler for microvascular anastomosis in reconstructive surgery. The incumbent will conduct in vitro cellular studies and support an in vivo porcine survival study, generating biocompatibility and efficacy data to advance the device toward clinical translation and regulatory submission.

Job Responsibilities

• Plan, conduct, and document in vitro cellular studies, including endothelial cell viability, immunohistochemistry, fibrosis marker analysis, and cytokine profiling
• Operate flow loop systems and conduct wound-healing assays to assess vascular recovery kinetics under physiological shear stress
• Support material characterisation using scanning electron microscopy and assist with antithrombotic surface functionalisation testing
• Coordinate and assist in vivo porcine survival study procedures, including flap surgery, Doppler monitoring, biopsy collection, and histological evaluation
• Organize and support internal team meetings, IACUC coordination, and liaison with external collaborators (e.g., SEMC/NLAF)
• Maintain accurate records, analyse data, and contribute to progress reports, manuscripts, and regulatory documentation
• Help in the applications of future research grants

Requirements

• PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, or related qualification
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in cell culture, immunohistochemistry, live/dead assays, and fluorescence/confocal microscopy
• Familiarity with flow loop systems, hemodynamics, or biomaterials testing is advantageous
• Prior experience with large animal (porcine) survival studies preferred; IACUC certification required or must be obtained
• Proficiency in histological techniques (e.g., Masson's trichrome, Sirius red) and standard data analysis software
• Strong project coordination skills to manage multi-site experiments across NUS, N.1 Institute, and SingHealth facilities
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary clinical-engineering team and manage tight project timelines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for scientific reporting, manuscript preparation, and grant documentation