Research Assistant I/II (several posts) in the Division of Public Health Laboratory Sciences

University of Hong Kong

Duties & Responsibilities

Develop, optimize, and execute nucleic acid testing protocols for pathogen detection in public health surveillance.
Develop and optimize electrochemical methods for detecting and quantifying nucleic acids in environmental, biological, and clinical samples.
Modify and characterize electrochemical sensors and biosensors for nucleic acid analysis.
Perform nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and sample preparation for electrochemical and amplification-based detection.
Develop, optimize, and validate molecular assays including PCR, qPCR, LAMP, and other nucleic acid amplification methods.
Document experimental procedures, results, and protocols to ensure reproducibility and quality compliance.

Master's degree or higher in Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related fields.
Minimum two years of relevant hands-on experience in nucleic acid analysis, electrochemistry, or related biomedical fields.
Strong understanding of electrochemical principles including voltammetry, amperometry, potentiometry, and impedance spectroscopy.
Proficiency in operating electrochemical instrumentation and data analysis software.
Experience in sensor surface modification and characterization techniques.
Solid knowledge and experience in nucleic acid amplification techniques (PCR, qPCR, LAMP, RPA) and contamination control.
Fluency in English and Chinese.
Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills.
Familiarity with next-generation sequencing and diagnostic assay development is a plus.

Full-time, one-year temporary term contract with possibility of renewal subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance.