Doctoral Student Vacancy at National University of Singapore | Apply Now
This NUS PhD position is a rare chance for aspiring PhD students at the National University of Singapore. The university is seeking a Doctoral Student to contribute to groundbreaking research in gene-regulatory networks, particularly in the appendages of butterflies and zebrafish. Interested candidates should note the application deadline.
- Position: Doctoral Student
- Location: Singapore
About the National University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is a leading global university located in Singapore, recognized for its comprehensive research and academic programs. NUS is committed to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation across various disciplines, including life sciences, engineering, and social sciences. The university plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of education and research in Asia and beyond.
Project Overview
This NUS PhD position involves helping uncover whether our arms and legs, and those of insects, share the same core gene-regulatory network. The work will be mostly performed in the appendages of butterflies, in collaboration with Suriya Murugesan and Tom Carney working on zebrafish fin development. The goal of the project is to try to identify (functionally) homologous regulatory sequences from shared appendage genes across the two species.
Eligibility Criteria
- BSc degree (4-year equivalent) or 3-year Bachelor’s degree with a Master’s degree
- Minimum Second Class Upper Honours or equivalent for research scholarships
- IELTS ≥7.0 or TOEFL iBT ≥95, where applicable.
- GRE strongly recommended (320 in Verbal + Quantitative; 3.5 in Analytical Writing).
- Strong research interest in Biological Sciences.
- Submission of academic transcripts, CV, personal statement and two academic references.
NUS PhD position – Key Responsibilities
- Conduct original research in biological sciences under faculty supervision.
- Complete required PhD coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Participate in laboratory rotations and select a doctoral research supervisor.
- Develop research proposals and conduct experiments or scientific investigations.
- Analyse research findings and critically evaluate scientific literature.
- Attend research seminars and departmental academic activities.
- Complete qualifying examinations and required teaching duties.
- Prepare, submit and defend an original doctoral thesis.
Note: This is a PhD degree programme, not a specific employment vacancy. Research duties vary depending on the selected laboratory and supervisor.
Why Join the National University of Singapore?
Joining the National University of Singapore offers a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research that addresses fundamental questions in evolutionary biology. Collaborating with esteemed faculty and researchers, candidates will contribute to significant advancements in understanding gene regulation and evolution. NUS provides a vibrant academic environment that encourages innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
This doctoral student vacancy at the National University of Singapore presents an exciting pathway for those passionate about evolutionary developmental biology. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline of 15 November 2026 to seize this chance to contribute to impactful research.
Last Date to Apply: 15 November 2026
