Staff Scientist Single-Cell Genomics & Spatial Transcriptomics, Bioscience Core Laboratory.
Summary
The Bioscience Core Laboratory (BCL) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Staff Scientist to join our expanding Single-Cell Genomics & Spatial Transcriptomics team. This role requires an experienced scientist with deep expertise in single-cell and spatial transcriptomics technologies, strong experimental and analytical insight and a proven track record of driving complex multi-omics projects from conception to delivery. The Staff Scientist will be involved in the development, optimization and implementation of advanced 10X Genomics single cell and spatial transcriptomics workflows (Chromium Single Cell, CytAssist Visium HD) and emerging technologies.
The successful candidate will also play a critical upstream advisory role, guiding users in pre-analytical sample preparation, including tissue handling, cryosectioning, histology, and generation of high-quality single-cell/single-nuclei suspensions. Furthermore, the Staff Scientist will collaborate closely with researchers, students and PIs at KAUST and contribute strategically to the continuous expansion of BCL's multi-omics capabilities. This role requires scientific leadership, operational excellence, and a passion for enabling high-impact biological research
Responsibilities
Single-Cell & Spatial Transcriptomics Operations
- Oversee, and troubleshoot advanced 10x Genomics single-cell and spatial transcriptomics workflows.
- Serve as a technical authority for experimental design, sample QC and assay optimization.
- Ensure high-quality execution of all stepsfrom sample intake and QC to library preparation and sequencing handoff.
- Work with a diverse range of biological sample types, including non-standard sample types such as coral, plant and other organisms commonly studied at KAUST, ensuring optimal handling strategies tailored to each sample/tissue type.
Upstream Sample Preparation & Pre-Analytical Support
- Provide expert consultation to users on tissue handling, preservation, and sectioning, ensuring optimal RNA integrity for single-cell and spatial assays. Guide users in generating high-viability single-cell and single-nuclei suspensions through optimized enzymatic/mechanical dissociation, nuclei isolation, debris management and viability QC.
- Support and troubleshoot cryosectioning, OCT embedding, H&E staining, slide preparation, and imaging for Visium HD workflows.
- Establish and maintain sample acceptance criteria, ensuring research groups understand the upstream factors that drive successful experimental outcomes.
Workflow Development & Method Optimization
- Develop, validate and optimize emerging assays, protocols, and multi-modal workflows across single-cell and spatial platforms.
- Evaluate and implement new technologies and chemistries in collaboration with vendors and internal stakeholders.
User Training & Scientific Consultation
- Provide high-level training for researchers, students and PIs on experimental design, sample preparation and pre-analytical best practices.
- Design and deliver workshops, seminars, and hands-on training modules on single-cell and spatial methodologies.
- Support users with varying levels of experience, ensuring they are empowered to conduct successful research projects with BCL.
Collaboration & Cross-Disciplinary Integration
- Serve as a scientific partner to research groups, contributing expertise in experimental planning, sample QC, assay selection and successful project execution.
- Work collaboratively across BCL teamsincluding Flow Cytometry, NGS, TGS and Bioinformatics.
- Take initiative and actively seek out opportunities for collaboration.
Lab Operations, Compliance & Quality
- Ensure adherence to good laboratory practices (GLP), biosafety guidelines and RNase-free best practices.
- Maintain organized and high-performing laboratory operations, including reagent inventory, consumables oversight, and workflow optimization.
- Participate in weekly lab cleanup and organization to maintain a safe and efficient workspace.
- Contribute to writing, reviewing, and maintaining SOPs and work instructions. Continuous Improvement & Professional Development
- Stay current with advances in single-cell, spatial, and multi-omics technologies.
- Expand professional network both in the local and global context
- Identify opportunities to improve workflows, streamline operations, and enhance user experience.
- Proactively engage in professional development to enhance expertise and contribute to a positive, collaborative work environment.
Additional Responsibilities
- Perform other tasks as assigned, within the scope of expertise and role responsibilities.
Competencies
- Deep expertise in single-cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics and multi-omics technologies.
- Extensive experience with 10x Genomics platforms (Chromium, CytAssist).
- Strong command of upstream sample preparation, including: Fresh/frozen tissue handling and preservation, Cryosectioning and OCT embedding, H&E staining and slide preparation, High-quality single-cell and single-nuclei suspension generation, Viability QC, debris minimization and cell morphology assessment
- Experience working with diverse tissue and sample types is a plus (e.g., human, mouse, coral, plant), and the ability to adapt upstream workflows to different biological systems.
- Strong troubleshooting abilities across pre-analytical workflows and assay failure modes. Experience evaluating RNA integrity metrics and establishing sample suitability.
- Familiarity with imaging systems (e.g., Axioscan) and image QC for Visium HD analysis.
- Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g. Cell Ranger, Loupe Browser, Seurat, Space Ranger)
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to provide high-level scientific consultation to researchers from diverse backgrounds.
- Proven leadership in designing and delivering scientific training, workshops, and hands-on courses.
- Strong project management, organizational, and documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple concurrent projects in a timely manner.
- Self-motivated, proactive mindset.
- Comfortable working in an international, multicultural research environment.
Qualifications & Experience
- PhD in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field.
- Minimum 35 years of postdoctoral or equivalent experience in single-cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, or highly related areas.
- Experience working in a core facility, service-oriented environment is highly desirable.
- Experience supervising junior staff and leading scientific projects is a strong advantage.
