Job Description

SCHOOL OF CHINESE MEDICINE

TEACHING AND RESEARCH DIVISION

Research Assistant Professor (25260705)

The School of Chinese Medicine (SCM) at Hong Kong Baptist University is seeking a high calibre Research Assistant Professor to join our world-class research clusters. This role is designed for a researcher dedicated to tackling neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s) through the lens of innovative drug development. You will work within a vibrant ecosystem that bridges Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with cutting-edge molecular neuroscience and pharmacology.

Strategic Research Priorities:

The ideal candidate will advance the SCM’s strategic goal of modernisation by:

• Deciphering neurodegeneration: Investigating the molecular pathomechanisms of ageing-associated brain disorder, including protein aggregation, autophagy impairment, and neuroinflammation.
• Innovating drug discovery: Leading and assisting the development of novel therapeutic agents, small molecules, or herbal derivatives specifically targeting neurodegenerative pathways.
• Advanced delivery system: Developing brain-targeting drug delivery systems, such as engineered exosomes or nanocarriers, to enhance the efficacy of TCM-inspired compounds.
• Multi-omics integration: Utilizing single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to identify biomarkers and new therapeutic targets within the central nervous system.

Responsibilities:

• Direct translational projects investigating neuroinflammation, Parkinson's, or Alzheimer's, utilizing transgenic models and molecular biology;
• Discover and optimize lead compounds from natural products and Chinese herbal medicine for clinical potential;
• Partner with the international partners and industry leaders to translate findings into clinical applications;and
• Secure competitive research grants, publish in high-impact journals, and supervise the next generation of postgraduate researchers.

Requirements:

• A PhD in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Biomedical Sciences, Chinese Medicine, or related discipline;
• A strong publication record in neurodegenerative research, with specific experience in animal modles (e.g., PD / AD mouse models) and drug screening;
• Proficiency in molecular biology, single-cell multi-omics, or advanced imaging techniques (e.g., Ca2+-imaging or electrophysiology);
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and secure external funding; and
• Excellent scientific communication skills.

The initial appointment will be made on a fixed-term contract of up to three years. Re-appointment thereafter is subject to mutual agreement.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Application Procedure:

Applicants are invited to submit their applications at the HKBU e-Recruitment System. Those who are not invited for interview 4 months after submission of application may consider their applications unsuccessful. Details of the University's Personal Information Collection Statement can be found at https://hro.hkbu.edu.hk/en/worklife-at-hkbu/employee-favourable-environment.html#privacy-policy.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment for the post advertised, and the appointment will be made according to the terms and conditions applicable at the time of offer.

Review of applications is ongoing until the position is filled.