RESEARCHER I, BIOLOGY

Job Summary: The Researcher I (Biology) role reports to the Head of Biological Research and involves supporting and conducting biological research projects, including invitro studies and human clinical trial-related activities, with a focus on oleochemicals, phytonutrients, and bioactive ingredients derived from palm oil. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology, Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Nutritional Science, or a related life sciences field, with a PhD considered an advantage, particularly for Researcher II applicants. Researcher I requires 2-3 years of relevant experience in biological, biomedical, nutritional, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, or life sciences research, while Researcher II requires 3-5 years of experience, preferably including leadership of experimental workstreams, project coordination, or support for clinical studies.

Role and Responsibilities

. Design, plan and conduct in vitro biological studies to evaluate the efficacy, mechanism of action and biological activity of active ingredients and formulations.

. Perform mammalian cell culture, aseptic handling, molecular biology, biochemical, genomic and proteomic assays, including Western blot, real-time PCR, ELISA and other relevant analytical techniques.

. Conduct microbiology-related testing, including microbial culture, aseptic handling, antimicrobial efficacy evaluation, microbial enumeration, contamination assessment and interpretation of microbiological data in accordance with established protocols and biosafety requirements.

. Support human clinical trial activities, including protocol preparation, study coordination, data collection and management, and engagement with KOLs, clinical partners, investigators and internal stakeholders.

. Analyse, interpret and present experimental and clinical data in a scientifically sound, clearly structured and business-relevant manner.

. Collaborate with internal R&D teams, academic institutions, clinical research organisations and external partners to ensure timely and effective delivery of research projects.

. Prepare scientific manuscripts, technical reports, presentation materials and supporting documentation for internal decision-making, publications, regulatory submissions and commercialisation activities.

. Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records, research databases, study documentation and experimental reports in accordance with good documentation practices.

. Manage laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, inventory control, reagent management, safety compliance and general facility upkeep.

. Monitor scientific developments, emerging technologies and relevant literature to support innovation and strengthen the company's research capabilities.

. Undertake other research-related duties as assigned by the Head of Biological Research.

Job Success Requirements

Preferred experience includes:

. Hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemical assays and related biological evaluation techniques.

. Experience with clinical trial coordination, human subject research, sample handling, study documentation or collaboration with clinical partners will be advantageous.

. Familiarity with proteomics, biomarker analysis, inflammation-related models, skin biology, metabolic research or neurobiology will be an added advantage.

. Proven ability to generate high-quality experimental data and translate findings into peer-reviewed publications or presentations.

Skills /Competencies

. Strong technical capability in mammalian cell culture, microbiology, molecular biology and in vitro assay development.

. Good understanding of experimental design, data analysis, result interpretation and scientific reporting.

. Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams.

. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

. Good project coordination skills with the ability to manage timelines, documentation and multiple research activities concurrently.

. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present scientific findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

. Familiarity with good laboratory practices, research ethics, biosafety requirements and good documentation practices.

. Competency in literature review, scientific writing and preparation of reports, manuscripts and presentation materials.

. Proficiency in common data analysis and documentation tools such as Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, GraphPad Prism or equivalent scientific software.

. High level of integrity, ownership, curiosity and commitment to research excellence.