Postdoctoral Research Fellows in DNA Replication and Telomere Biology
Lim Laboratory | Department of Biological Sciences | National University of Singapore

The Lim Laboratory, led by Associate Professor Ci Ji Lim, invites applications for postdoctoral positions in DNA replication and telomere biology at the Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore (NUS). Successful candidates are expected to begin their appointments in July or August 2027.

Our research

We study how molecular machines initiate, coordinate and regulate DNA synthesis across biological systems, including human and viral replication machinery. A major focus is understanding how human telomeres are replicated, organised and protected, and how defects in these processes contribute to genome instability, cancer, ageing and inherited diseases.

Our laboratory combines biochemical reconstitution, cryo-electron microscopy, single-molecule biophysics, long-read sequencing and cell biology. Research opportunities include:

• Determining how DNA polymerases, primases and helicases coordinate DNA synthesis in cellular and viral systems.
• Defining how telomerase and the CST–DNA polymerase α–primase machinery regulate telomere replication.
• Mapping telomere chromatin organisation and understanding its roles in chromosome end protection and replication.
• Developing methods to investigate the structure, function and dynamics of protein–DNA assemblies.

Our recent work includes defining the architecture of the human CST–DNA polymerase α–primase complex (Nature, 2022), resolving human primosome elongation complexes (Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, 2023), and identifying RPA as an essential human telomerase processivity factor (Science, 2025). We have also investigated viral helicase–primase inhibition (Science Advances, 2025) and developed protein additives that protect fragile cryo-EM samples (Nature Communications, 2024).

Responsibilities

Successful candidates will develop and lead research projects, design and conduct experiments, analyse data, prepare manuscripts, and present their findings. They will also contribute to collaborative projects and mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers. Projects will be developed around the scientific interests and expertise of incoming fellows.

Qualifications

Applicants should hold, or be nearing completion of, a PhD in biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, molecular biology, genetics or a related discipline. The PhD should be completed before the appointment begins.

We welcome candidates with experience in one or more of the following: protein–nucleic acid biochemistry, enzymology, cryo-EM, single-molecule methods, long-read sequencing and genomics, or mammalian cell biology. Prior experience in DNA replication or telomere biology is welcome but not essential. Candidates should demonstrate scientific curiosity, rigorous experimental thinking, effective communication, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

What we offer

Postdoctoral fellows will have substantial opportunities to develop and lead projects, take scientific ownership, and receive mentoring towards independent research careers. Salary and benefits will be competitive, commensurate with experience and in accordance with NUS policies.

How to apply

Please email the following to limciji84@gmail.com:

• Your CV, including a publication list.
• A brief description of your research experience, interests and motivation for joining the laboratory.
• Contact details for three referees.
• Your anticipated availability.

For more information about our research and publications, visit www.limlab.org.

The Department of Biological Sciences (DBS), National University of Singapore (NUS), invites applications for tenure-track faculty positions up to the level of tenured Full Professor in research areas including but not limited to:

1. 1. Cell, molecular and developmental biology 

   2. Computational biology/AI in life sciences

   3. Synthetic biology and biotechnology

   4. Nature-based climate solutions (impact of Climate Change solutions)

   5. Biodiversity, conservation and evolutionary biology

We are looking for highly motivated researchers with a strong passion for research and teaching. Successful applicants are expected to push the boundaries through transdisciplinary research, and should have an outstanding publication record in the relevant areas. They are also expected to excel in teaching students from an interdisciplinary background.

The positions offer a unique opportunity to be part of a leading global university with colleagues leading in their respective fields. The university offers internationally competitive salary packages in Singapore’s low tax environment. The Department is committed to achieving excellence and diversity among its faculty, and female and minority candidates are encouraged to apply for these positions.

Young academics with outstanding research track record can also apply for appointments as NUS Presidential Young Professors (PYP), a tenure-track position with an attractive salary package as an assistant professor at NUS. The position offers SGD 250K white space funding, up to SGD 1 million in a start-up research grant, and scholarships for graduate students. For more information on PYP, please visit www.dbs.nus.edu.sg/nus-presidential-young-professorship/.

The application package should include:

1. 1. a cover letter describing career goals and research and teaching interests

   2. a full up-to-date curriculum vitae (including teaching experience and a list of three referees)

   3. a research statement summarizing the past achievements and future research plans

   4. a teaching statement stating teaching philosophy and teaching plans

The application materials should be sent to:

Chair, Search Committee (c/o Ms. Norizan binti Selamat)
Department of Biological Sciences
National University of Singapore
14 Science Drive 4
Singapore 117543

Fax: (65) 6779 5671; Email: norizan@nus.edu.sg

For further information regarding the Department of Biological Sciences, please visit: https://www.dbs.nus.edu.sg

 Closing date of application: (Search will continue until suitable candidates are found)