Research Analyst

ABOUT WorldFish  

WorldFish is an international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish and other aquatic foods for their livelihoods and nutrition. Our work in countries advances progress on multiple 2030 Sustainable Development Goals through science and innovation, with a vision of healthy people, healthy planet and shared prosperity.   

About the Position 

The Research Analyst will support the daily operations of the WorldFish Genetics and Aquatic Animal Health Laboratory at Penang HQ under the supervision of the laboratory manager and scientists. The role provides essential technical support to both the Genetics and Aquatic Animal Health teams, contributing directly to the GIFT genetic improvement program. Responsibilities span routine laboratory work, molecular and microbiological assays, sequencing and diagnostics, for health monitoring, sampling as part of fish husbandry support, training delivery, and analytical reporting. The Research Analyst will also undertake the necessary husbandry activities to maintain the Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) fish and support associated research. This will involve working on a roster with other team members, where timely attendance, animal care, and careful record-keeping are critical aspects of the role. The position is primarily hands-on, focusing on laboratory activities and maintenance, as well as generating high-quality data to ensure reliable diagnostics, smooth research implementation, and the timely delivery of outputs for breeding and health monitoring programs.

Key Responsibilities

Primary Purpose of Job:

• Manage fish health/genetic sampling as part of the breeding activities under the GIFT genetic improvement program and ensure the upkeep and readiness of the Genetics and Aquatic Animal Health laboratory.
• Perform routine microbiological and molecular assays, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing (amplicon and whole genome).
• Prepare reagents, media, consumables; maintain calibrated laboratory equipment.
• Handle and process samples according to standard operating procedures (SOPs), ensuring compliance with biosecurity, safety, and ethical standards, while developing and validating new molecular and sequencing assays.
• Supporting research activities at WorldFish Penang Headquarters that are related to the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) of the Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) strain, including:

maintaining the current generation(s) of GIFT,production of new generation(s) of GIFT including production, incubation, nursing, tagging, and growing out of families,water quality monitoring and system maintenance,other research experiments of WorldFish,another collaborating research with WorldFish local/international partner.

• Produce regular analytical reports summarizing diagnostic and research outputs.
• Develop and deliver field and laboratory trainings in Malaysia and other WorldFish countries for staff, interns, and partners.

 Primary engagement, collaboration, and communication responsibilities:

• Supervise and mentor interns, fellows, students, and visiting researchers, guiding laboratory techniques, procedures, and safety practices.
• Provide technical support to colleagues in the Genetics and Aquatic Animal Health teams, including sampling for genotyping, molecular screening, and ensuring laboratory services align with project research needs and timelines.
• Learn and develop practical experiences in fish handling, including fish identification, reproduction, hatchery techniques, harvesting, and performance monitoring.
• Prepare, write, and submit animal ethics applications, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and donor reporting.
• Manage laboratory resources, including procurement, vendor engagement, budgeting, and inventory, to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of services.
• Coordinate sample submissions to national and international laboratories and contribute to capacity-building initiatives, workshops, and tailored training programs.

Primary responsibilities in the delivery of timely and quality services:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date online records of laboratory activities, experiments, assay results, and inventories using WorldFish data management systems for accessibility, traceability, and quality control of genetics and animal health outputs.
• Monitor reagent usage and stock levels to ensure laboratory readiness and prevent operational delays.
• Follow SOPs and uphold biosafety and biosecurity protocols to guarantee reproducibility, accuracy, and safe practices.

This role could be the right fit for you if you bring a strong blend of scientific expertise, leadership, and passion for advancing aquatic foods biosciences. Ideally, you will have:

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, aquaculture, or a closely related field.
• Minimum three (3) years of hands-on laboratory experience in a molecular or related laboratory.
• Proven hands-on experience in a laboratory environment, with emphasis on microbiology and/or molecular diagnostics.
• Skills in biological samples handling, DNA/RNA extraction, bacterial isolation, use of sterile techniques, and record keeping.
• Practical experience with PCR/qPCR techniques and related molecular methods.
• Effective planning, organizing, and prioritization of tasks.
• Ability to manage laboratory equipment, maintenance schedules, and procurement processes.
• Experience with data analysis and critical thinking to interpret laboratory results.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Knowledge of biosafety, occupational health, and compliance/quality assurance in laboratory operations.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks, work independently, and contribute effectively to a team.
• Fluency in English is essential to communicate in writing and speaking.

 Desirable Skills/Experience

• Experience in next-generation sequencing workflows (amplicon or whole genome).
• Knowledge of fish husbandry, health monitoring, biosecurity, and aquaculture production systems.
• Experience in supervising and mentoring students or interns.
• Proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia (spoken and written).
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally as required.

This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position and WorldFish offers a competitive remuneration package including comprehensive benefits (but not limited to) insurance coverage for staff and eligible dependents, employer provident fund contribution, paid leave, and others. The duration of the contract will initially be for a three-year period with possibility for extension, depending on funding and performance.

How to Apply

Your application must include:

• A copy of your curriculum vitae,
• A cover letter which addresses key requirements stated above; and
• Contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.

To be considered, applications must be submitted by no later than 23:59 (MYT), 23 November 2025.

Location: The post holder will be based in Penang, Malaysia. 

The screening will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment 

Over 40% of WorldFish staff is women with some 30 nationalities represented and contributing to its dynamic multicultural work environment. WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We aim to also seek balance across other diversity dimensions. 

People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity.

We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply. 

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