Sarah Tan

Lab rat living the dream | Infectious Diseases

Singapore, Singapore

About

Experience

  • Research Officer at A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research
    Aug 2024 - Present · 2 yrs

    Infectious Diseases Labs (Microbial Immunity Lab) • Investigated vector-borne diseases (eg. DENV, CHIKV) through characterization of mosquito salivary proteins and mosquito-host interactions. • Conducted in-vivo mouse studies to model infectious disease progression, immune responses, and vaccine efficacy. • Performed molecular, immunological, and virological assays: RNA/DNA extraction, qRT-PCR, ELISA, flow cytometry, and cell culture-based virus work. • Developed, optimized, and troubleshot biological assays, ensuring reliable performance and reproducible results while supporting experimental and process development activities. • Trained in BSL-2 enhanced (BSL2E) facilities, contributed to national infectious disease efforts by safely conducting experiments and adhering to strict biosafety and containment protocols. • Maintained accurate experimental and patient cohort records, ensuring data integrity and reporting.

  • Research Assistant at Nanyang Technological University Singapore
    Apr 2022 - Jul 2024 · 2 yrs 4 mos

    Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute (NEWRI) • Actively participated in the execution of experiments. Proficient in executing experiments while maintaining strict adherence to established protocols and safety measures • Engaged in cell culture work. Experienced in passaging, seeding, and conducting cell-based assays such as Seahorse XF and CellTiter-Glo • Skilled in analyzing water and faecal samples. Expertise in RNA extraction and molecular processing (e.g. PCR) of water samples and animal tissue • Independently and meticulously carried out bacterial and viral plaque assays, establishing and streamlining protocols • Conducted biochemical experiments focusing on solid phase extraction

  • Undergraduate Student Researcher at Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB)
    Jan 2024 - Apr 2024 · 4 mos

    FINAL YEAR PROJECT – Regulation of Compulsive Feeding by the Zona Incerta: Examination of Consummatory Behaviour in Murine Models • Certified under A*STAR's RCULAC program, demonstrating proficiency in handling mice according to industry standards and best practices • Acquired proficiency in stereotaxic surgery. Performed precise procedures, ensuring the integrity of experimental manipulations • Conducted behavioural experiments involving mouse handling to investigate the effects of chemogenetic manipulations on ZI and PFC-ZI circuits • Utilized modern deep learning tools to establish an in-depth behavioural analysis pipeline, extracting behavioural quantification of consummatory behaviour

  • Research Assistant at Evonik
    Jan 2023 - Jun 2023 · 6 mos

    Cell and Tissue Systems - In Vitro Models team • Actively collaborated with a multidisciplinary research team engaging in troubleshooting sessions and brainstorming exercises to overcome experimental challenges and enhance project outcomes • Acquired practical proficiency in a range of laboratory techniques, including cell culture, PCR, fluorescence microscopy, Cryostat tissue preparation and sectioning, and ELISA • Initiated and spearheaded the development of research initiatives focused on skin models (eg. Asian skin models, compound testing, barrier function characterisation)

  • Legal Secretary at Advent Law Firm, PLLC
    Oct 2021 - Dec 2021 · 3 mos

    • Acted as the point of contact for clients, advising debtors on behalf of banks, while maintaining a high level of professionalism and confidentiality • Liaised with banks and lawyers to prepare and draft legal documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal requirements • Manage case files, including organizing documents, maintaining electronic records, and ensuring all information is up-to-date and easily accessible