Research Associate (Biocatalysis)

About TUMCREATE

TUMCREATE is a multidisciplinary research platform of the Technical University of Munich (TUM) at the Singapore Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE). We are joining forces with universities, public agencies, and industries for the advancement of future technologies.

Our large-scale Food Science ‘Proteins4Singapore’ program is funded by Singapore’s National Research Foundation (NRF). The Technical University Munich (TUM) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) join forces with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI) to research plant-based proteins.

Please visit www.tum-create.edu.sg for more information about TUMCREATE.

Project Description and Job Purpose

We are looking for a Research Associate to support the biocatalysis team at TUMCREATE. As part of the Proteins4Singapore initiative, microalgae from indoor production is being investigated as a source of protein and other valuable nutrients. Enzymatic systems represent a valuable tool for the downstream processing of the biomass, such as nutrient extraction and side stream valorization. The project aims to use microorganisms as a platform for production of enzyme formulations, with focus on proteases and carbohydrate-active enzymes. Enzymes will be purified using chemical and chromatographic methods such as ion exchange and hydrophobic interaction chromatography for their use in downstream processing.

This position provides an opportunity to work on research at the intersection of biotechnology and food science. At TUMCREATE, the project is hosted in a dynamic and international research environment, sharing interfaces with academia as well as industry.

This is a fixed term contract until March 2027. Extension is subject to funding availability and performance.

Fresh graduates with keen interest in gaining hands-on wet lab skills are welcome to apply.

Applied Methods

Microalgae cultivation, bacterial cultivation in flasks and lab-scale bioreactors, protein analysis (e.g., spectrophotometry, SDS-PAGE), enzymatic assays (e.g., DNSA), HPLC for sugar profiling, chromatographic methods (e.g., anion exchange, size exclusion)

Your Duties and Responsibilities

• Planning and execution of experiments related to microalgae and bacterial cultivation, harvesting, and extraction of biocompounds.
• Establishing and optimizing analytical methods.
• Upscaling of cultivations from flask to lab-scale bioreactor.
• Presentation of research findings during team meetings.
• Active participation in discussions with fellow researchers, and project leads.
• Administrative and maintenance tasks to upkeep laboratory logistics.
• Preparation of research reports, presentations and publications.

Requirements/Competences

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in fields such as Biotechnology, Bio-/Chemical Engineering, Food Science and any related field

Experience and Attitude

• Laboratory experience related to the above-mentioned methodology is beneficial for this position.
• A strong willingness to learn, contribute, and work independently is equally important.
• Attention to detail when collecting data collection and following protocols.
• Interpretation of experimental results and troubleshooting.
• Teamwork: effective collaboration within a multidisciplinary and international team.
  

What TUM CREATE offers you

• Competitive salary
• Medical insurance
• Good amount of leave/vacation days
• Vibrant, modern and positive working environment in Singapore
• Campus-sited office location with a host of facilities
• In-building perks including gym, game room and coffee room

Applications

Please send the following compulsory application package to [email protected]:

• Cover letter
• CV
• University transcripts

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

We look forward to your application!