Research Assistant I / Senior Research Assistant (Laboratory) in the Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine
Work type: Full-time
Department: Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine (21100)
Categories: Research Staff
Applications are invited for appointment as Research Assistant I / Senior Research Assistant in the Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine (to commence as soon as possible, for one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance), to support a Health and Medical Research Fund (HMRF) funded project on multi-omics approaches for the diagnosis of rare diseases.
The appointee will work under the supervision of Dr. Brian Chung and will play a key role in the day-to-day operation of the laboratory while contributing to research at the interface of clinical genomics, molecular biology and rare disease diagnosis. Duties include performing molecular and cellular experiments (such as protein-based assays and iPSC-derived neuronal models), handling and processing clinical samples, assisting with in vivo animal studies, maintaining laboratory records, stock, equipment and safety standards, and helping to train and guide junior team members. Depending on the candidate's strengths, there will be opportunities to take part in data analysis and to contribute to manuscripts and presentations.
Applicants should have a bachelor's or master's degree in biological or medical sciences, life sciences, genomics or a related discipline, with hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology and cell culture techniques (e.g. DNA/RNA/protein extraction, qPCR,
immunoassays). Experience in handling clinical or biological samples, in vivo animal work, or iPSC/neuronal culture will be an advantage, as will familiarity with basic data analysis. A genuine interest in human genetics and rare disease research is essential. Applicants should
be careful, reliable and punctual, with a strong sense of responsibility and good laboratory practice; understand the rationale behind experimental procedures; be able to work both independently and as part of a team; be eager to learn; and be fluent in written and spoken English with good communication skills.
Candidates with less prior experience will be considered at the Research Assistant I level, while candidates with a master's degree or substantial relevant research experience may be considered for appointment as Senior Research Assistant, with greater responsibility for
laboratory coordination.
Successful candidates will gain strong training in genomics and functional laboratory research, with prospects to co-author publications and present findings at international conferences. Candidates who demonstrate strong performance and commitment are encouraged to consider continuation in the team as postgraduate (PhD) students under Dr. Brian Chung's supervision. Enquiries about the duties of the post should be sent to Dr. C. Mak at cmakl@hku.hk.
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits.
The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date C.V. indicating the name and correspondence details of two referees.
Applications close: December 7, 2026 (HK Time)
Review of applications will start from November 13, 2026, and continue until December 7, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
