Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Research Assistant (Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Metabolism)
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
This role supports laboratory research in cell biology, biochemistry, and metabolism at Nanyang Technological University. Typical requirements include a bachelor's or master's degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, biotechnology, life sciences, or a related field, together with practical experience in cell culture, molecular biology, protein or biochemical assays, and standard laboratory techniques. The successful candidate is expected to conduct experiments carefully, maintain accurate records, analyse and present results, assist with publications and reports, and follow laboratory safety and research protocols. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, scientific curiosity, time management, and the ability to work independently are important. Experience with mammalian cell culture, microscopy, metabolic assays, or related research methods would be advantageous.
Can I work in Singapore?
Never pay anyone for a visa or a job offer. A real employer pays the permit costs and never asks you for money.
How it works
How it works: Employment Pass: SGD 5,600+ a month at 23 (6,000 from January 2027), more with age, plus 40 COMPASS points; a degree from a top-tier university scores 20 of them.
Before you apply: Schools want a degree and often a teaching qualification, and some places license teachers before you can teach: schools maintained by councils in England, and schools in Hong Kong, New Zealand and Thailand. Ask which licence your post needs.
Watch for: The post is usually advertised to locals for 14 days first; teacher aides and infant caregivers in licensed childcare centres are on the Work Permit list for South Asians and Filipinos since September 2026.
Official source: Ministry of Manpower: COMPASS points framework. Checked November 2026.
What the job usually comes with in Singapore
Usual for Education jobs in Singapore, varies by employer. Checked November 2026.
| Housing | Not usual; senior expats may get an allowance; Work Permit staff: employer must ensure proper housing (by law) |
|---|---|
| Relocation | Work Permit staff: employer pays levy, bond and insurance (by law); relocation help is an expat perk |
| Flights | Work Permit staff: flight home paid by the employer (by law); others only if the offer says so |
| Contract | Work Permit up to 2 years; S Pass and Employment Pass up to 2, then 3; notice 1 day to 4 weeks by default |
| Leave | 7 to 14 days (by law; many get more); 11 public holidays; 14 days' sick leave, 60 in hospital |
| Income tax | 0% up to SGD 20,000 a year, then 2% to 24% (about 3% at SGD 60,000); resident rates on a 1-year pass |
| Health cover | Employer must insure Work Permit and S Pass staff, SGD 60,000 a year (by law); Employment Pass: company plan |
Senior staff often get more than line staff, for example a single room or a yearly home flight. Ask the employer what the job includes before you accept.
Guidance, not legal advice. Rules change; your employer confirms the details for your case.
About Nanyang Technological University
Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore) is a major public research university located in Singapore. It is internationally recognised for research and education in areas including science, engineering, medicine, business, sustainability, and the humanities. NTU’s main campus is known for its modern facilities, laboratories, residential colleges, and extensive research infrastructure. The university collaborates with government agencies, hospitals, companies, and international academic institutions on projects with practical and global impact. Research assistants work within schools, research centres, and laboratories, supporting projects under the guidance of principal investigators and academic teams. The working environment is multicultural and research-focused, with opportunities to develop technical expertise, contribute to scientific publications, and prepare for further postgraduate study or research careers.