PositionSenior Research Assistant (Genomics, Malaria)GroupMalariaLocationThis post is based in Ho Chi Minh CityHours of work37.5 hours per week, extra hours may be required.
TenureInitially for 1 year, including a 2-month probation period, with the possibility of extension.
Reporting toDr. Nhien Nguyen – Vice Head of Malaria GroupVacancy referenceJDHCM-1026-019BackgroundThe Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) is a large-scale clinical and public health research unit, with sites offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi in Vietnam, Jakarta in Indonesia and Kathmandu in Nepal. In Vietnam, we are hosted by the Hospital of Tropical Diseases (HTD) in Ho Chi Minh City, and the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases (NHTD) in Hanoi. OUCRU Nepal closely collaborates with the National Academy of Medical Sciences in Kathmandu, and OUCRU Indonesia exists in partnership with the University of Indonesia. As a Wellcome Trust Major International Programme, we have received considerable support from the Wellcome Trust since our establishment in 1991. OUCRU’s vision is to have local, regional and global impact on health by leading a locally driven research programme on infectious diseases in Southeast Asia. Priority is given to health issues key to the hospitals where we work, and to the countries as a whole where we operate: Vietnam, Indonesia and Nepal. All work is intended not only to benefit the patients seen daily at our host hospitals, but also to help improve patient care. Please see more information on OUCRU website: www.oucru.orgJob summaryIn collaboration with the University of Oxford, MORU, Menzies, and National Malaria Control Programs (NMCPs) across the Greater Mekong Subregion (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and China), OUCRU is leading a regional project titled “GenRe-Mekong 3.” Funded by the Gates Foundation, this initiative focuses on the genetic epidemiology of malaria parasites to support local and regional elimination efforts. The next phase of the project is dedicated to capacity building, supporting NMCPs in malaria molecular genotyping and data analysis to ensure long-term regional sustainability.



We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Research Assistant to serve as a key team member in developing innovative genomic methods and delivering technical training to our regional partners. This role involves hands-on laboratory work, genomic data analysis, high-level scientific communication (including grant reporting and peer-reviewed publications), and frequent international travel across the GMS to facilitate technology transfer.

Key responsibilities
and tasks1. Research Method Development – Method Optimization: Develop and optimize new genomic methodologies, specifically focusing on Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) workflows tailored for malaria molecular surveillance. – Data Analysis: Participate in analyzing genomic datasets generated across the project.
• Technical Transfer and Capacity Building – Training Delivery: Join the core team to deliver hands-on laboratory training workshops for NMCP staff and scientific partners in GMS countries. – Technical Mentorship: Provide ongoing technical mentorship and troubleshooting support to regional partners to build sustainable molecular genotyping capabilities. – On-site Support: Conduct site visits to partner laboratories in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and other partner regions to troubleshoot workflows and maintain quality control.
• Project Reporting and Scientific Communication – Scientific Writing: Actively contribute to drafting research manuscripts for publication in high-impact peer-reviewed journals. – Grants Reporting: Assist in preparing progress reports and documentation for project funders. – General Support: Perform additional project-related tasks as required to support overall team objectives.
Selection criteria Essential criteria –

Education:
MSc or recently completed PhD in Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field. – Technical Expertise: Extensive practical experience in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS),



with specific expertise in Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) workflows. – Scientific Track Record: Proven track record of peer-reviewed publications involving the development or application of genomic methodologies. – Analytical

Skills:
Experience in R or similar bioinformatics tools to process, analyze, and interpret genomic data. – Communication: Excellent written and spoken English skills for writing manuscripts, presenting findings, and conducting international training sessions. – Work Style: Highly self-motivated, detail-oriented, and effective both independently and as part of a collaborative team. – Mobility: Willingness and flexibility to travel internationally across GMS partner countries for training and on-site support. – Health and Safety: Evidence of Hepatitis B vaccination – Right to Work: Applicants must have the legal right to work in Vietnam. (Please note: OUCRU is unable to sponsor a work permit for this specific position). Preferred Criteria – Practical experience with Illumina sequencing platforms in addition to ONT. – Prior experience working in multi-partner international scientific collaborations. – Proven experience in technical knowledge transfer and lab training delivery. Benefits– Contracted salary range: $ 1,709 – $ 1,986 gross per month Optional insurance: In-patient and out-patient medical coverage; Personal accident insurance coverage – Two months’ salary for annual bonus and clothes – Annual leave 18 days each year for the first year, a maximum of 30 days Responsibilities – Other responsibilities and benefits are based on Viet Nam Labour Law.

How to apply
Interested qualified candidates are invited to send their detailed resume and cover letter in English, including copies of relevant degrees, certificates, either by email or by post to the following address: Oxford University Clinical Research Unit Laboratory of Clinical Science Hospital for Tropical Diseases 764 Vo Van Kiet, Cho Quan Ward, HCMC Email: [email protected]
• We thank all candidates for their interest but only short-listed applicants will be notified for interview. Contact personMs Nguyen Thi Hong PhucDeadline for submission20 Nov 2026

📌 Senior Research Assistant (Tilhar)
🏢 Oxford University Clinical Research Unit
📍 Tilhar