Research Assistant

ABOUT THE UNIT

The Core Laboratory brings together skills in biospecimen collection and genetic technologies to provide the platform for translational cancer research and adoption of precision medicine in Malaysia. Specifically, the team takes charge of sample collection, processing and storage of the Malaysian breast cancer genetic study, and performs the genetic testing for our clinical trials which include immunotherapy for breast cancer patients with a genetic marker more commonly found in Asians [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03989089], and PARP inhibitor therapy for breast cancer patients with a genomic biomarker developed at Cancer Research Malaysia [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05288127].

JOB DESCRIPTION

The staff of this role will perform routine laboratory processes for the organisation’s translational and clinical research programmes. He/she will primarily be involved in the accrual, transport, storage and maintenance of our biobanks, as well as collection and entry of cohort data. These processes will be performed and maintained according to best practices, ethical standards and safety regulations to ensure preservation of sample and data integrity and compliance. He/she will also perform other laboratory processes and research reports for our research programmes.

Roles & responsibilities include:

1. To perform routine laboratory processes and data entry for our research cohorts.
2. To prepare biospecimen collection kits for our research cohorts.
3. To assist in purchasing and stocking laboratory reagents and consumables.
4. Willing to travel for biospecimen collection across multiple hospital sites, when required.
5. Perform routine cell culture procedures, including cell passaging, cell counting, and cryopreservation of cell lines.
6. Perform basic molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
7. Demonstrate ability to communicate and work well with clinicians, research assistants, and relevant study teams.
8. Handle, process, document, and store biospecimens in accordance with standard operating procedure (SOPs), quality standards and regulatory requirements.
9. Support biobank operations and sample workflow, including sample retrieval and return, shipment coordination, digitisation and maintenance of sample records.
10. Ensure timely and accurate recording, updating, and management of study data and documentation.
11. Other responsibilities include:
    1. To represent team and Cancer Research Malaysia when appropriate.
    2. To undertake other administrative tasks as required.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

1. Educated to degree level with relevant experience as a Research Assistant.
2. Experience and skills in diagnostic laboratory or clinical trials is an advantage.
3. Demonstrated skills in biospecimen processing and/or molecular or cell culture technique or tissue sectioning will be an added advantage.
4. Preferably certified or trained in GCP compliance.
5. Meticulous, detailed, well-organised and able to work independently to meet deadlines.
6. Adopts a pro-active attitude to work.
7. Assumes full responsibilities within role.
8. Passion for CRMY's mission.