The Bioscience Core Laboratory (BCL) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is recruiting an accomplished and highly driven Staff Scientist to join its growing Single-Cell Genomics and Spatial Transcriptomics program. This position calls for an experienced researcher with in-depth knowledge of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, strong experimental and analytical capabilities, and a demonstrated ability to lead complex multi-omics projects from initial planning through successful completion. The Staff Scientist will play a central role in designing, optimizing, and implementing advanced 10x Genomics single-cell and spatial transcriptomics platforms, including Chromium Single Cell and CytAssist Visium HD, as well as evaluating emerging technologies in the field. In addition, the successful candidate will serve as a key upstream advisor, providing expert guidance on pre-analytical sample preparation such as tissue processing, cryosectioning, histology, and the generation of high-quality single-cell and single-nuclei suspensions. The role involves close collaboration with faculty, researchers, and students across KAUST, contributing strategically to the ongoing expansion of BCL’s integrated multi-omics services. Scientific leadership, operational rigor, and a strong commitment to enabling impactful biological research are essential for success in this position. Careers-KAUST
Key Responsibilities
Single-Cell & Spatial Transcriptomics Operations
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Manage, optimize, and troubleshoot advanced 10x Genomics single-cell and spatial transcriptomics workflows
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Act as a subject-matter expert for experimental design, sample quality control, and assay optimization
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Ensure excellence at every stage, from sample intake and QC to library preparation and sequencing transfer
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Support a wide variety of biological materials, including non-traditional sample types such as coral and plant tissues, adapting protocols to suit each system
Upstream Sample Preparation & Pre-Analytical Support
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Advise users on best practices for tissue handling, preservation, and sectioning to maintain RNA quality
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Guide the generation of high-viability single-cell and single-nuclei suspensions using optimized dissociation and nuclei isolation methods
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Provide support for cryosectioning, OCT embedding, H&E staining, slide preparation, and imaging for Visium HD workflows
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Define and maintain clear sample acceptance standards to ensure successful experimental outcomes
Workflow Development & Method Optimization
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Develop, validate, and refine new assays, protocols, and multimodal workflows across single-cell and spatial platforms
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Assess and implement novel technologies and chemistries in collaboration with vendors and internal teams
User Training & Scientific Consultation
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Deliver advanced training to researchers, students, and PIs on experimental design and sample preparation
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Organize and conduct workshops, seminars, and hands-on courses in single-cell and spatial methodologies
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Provide tailored support to users at varying experience levels to ensure project success
Collaboration & Cross-Functional Integration
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Partner with research groups to support experimental planning, QC strategies, assay selection, and execution
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Collaborate closely with other BCL units, including Flow Cytometry, NGS, TGS, and Bioinformatics
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Proactively identify and pursue opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
Laboratory Operations, Compliance & Quality
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Ensure compliance with GLP, biosafety standards, and RNase-free laboratory practices
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Maintain efficient laboratory operations, including inventory control, consumables management, and workflow optimization
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Participate in routine laboratory organization and safety activities
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Contribute to the preparation, review, and maintenance of SOPs and work instructions
Continuous Improvement & Professional Development
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Stay up to date with advances in single-cell, spatial, and multi-omics technologies
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Build and maintain professional networks at local and international levels
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Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, streamline workflows, and enhance user experience
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Actively pursue professional development to strengthen expertise and foster a collaborative work environment
Additional Duties
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Perform other related responsibilities as assigned within the scope of the role
Core Competencies
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Advanced expertise in single-cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, and multi-omics approaches
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Extensive hands-on experience with 10x Genomics platforms (Chromium and CytAssist)
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Strong proficiency in upstream sample preparation, including tissue preservation, cryosectioning, histology, and cell/nuclei isolation
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Ability to work with diverse biological samples (e.g., human, mouse, coral, plant) and adapt workflows accordingly
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Proven troubleshooting skills across pre-analytical processes and assay failure scenarios
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Experience assessing RNA quality and determining sample suitability
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Familiarity with imaging systems (e.g., Axioscan) and image quality assessment for Visium HD
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Working knowledge of analysis tools such as Cell Ranger, Loupe Browser, Seurat, and Space Ranger
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for high-level scientific consultation
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Demonstrated leadership in training delivery and workshop facilitation
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Strong organizational, project management, and documentation skills
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Ability to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervision
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Proactive, self-driven work ethic
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Comfortable operating in an international and multicultural research environment
Qualifications & Experience
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PhD in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biomedical Sciences, or a related discipline
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3–5 years of postdoctoral or equivalent experience in single-cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, or closely related fields
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Prior experience in a core facility or service-oriented research environment is highly preferred
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Experience supervising junior personnel and leading scientific projects is a strong advantage
Additional Requirements
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Minimum 2+ years of professional experience in genomics
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Minimum 2+ years of hands-on experience in single-cell sequencing