PhD studentship on (organic) photocatalysis

Nanyang Technological University; Singapore; On-site; SGD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Singapore is inviting applications for a fully-funded PhD studentship in developing nanoparticle photocatalysts for solar chemical synthesis. The role involves interdisciplinary research in material science, chemistry, and engineering, with a focus on innovative methods in the synthesis and characterization of materials. Candidates with a strong background in these areas are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Experience in synthesis of semiconductor powders and nanoparticles.
• Familiarity with gas chromatography, NMR, and HPLC techniques.
• Knowledge in advanced material characterization methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop nanoparticle photocatalysts for solar chemical synthesis.
• Interface semiconductor nanoparticles with selective co-catalysts.
• Screen substrate scope for organic oxidations.

Skills

synthesis of semiconductor powders

synthesis of inorganic and organic catalysts

quantification of gas and liquid products

advanced material characterisation

substrate screening

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

gas chromatography

NMR

HPLC

transmission electron microscopy

optical spectroscopy

Job description

School of Materials Science and Engineering

Organisation/Company Nanyang Technological University Department School of Materials Science and Engineering Research Field Chemistry » Solar chemistry Engineering » Materials engineering Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country Singapore Application Deadline 31 Jan 2026 - 12:00 (Asia/Singapore) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 1 Aug 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Applications are invited for a fully-funded 4-year PhD studentship in the group of Asst Prof Virgil Andrei at NTU Singapore, starting in August 2026. The PhD position will focus on developing nanoparticle photocatalysts for solar chemical synthesis, working at the interface between material science, chemistry and engineering. This interdisciplinary research will involve developing semiconductor nanoparticles, interfacing them with selective co-catalysts for proton and CO2 reduction, and screening the substrate scope of organic oxidations to value-added chemicals.

The successful candidate will develop the following expertise during their PhD:

• synthesis of semiconductor powders, nanoparticles and quantum dots
• synthesis of inorganic and organic catalysts for redox reactions
• quantification of gas and liquid products via gas chromatography, NMR, HPLC
• advanced material characterisation using transmission electron microscopy, optical spectroscopy
• substrate screening under laboratory and outdoor conditions

We welcome Singapore-based and international applicants to join our group!

Interested candidates are invited to get in touch and submit a detailed CV to:

Asst Prof Virgil Andrei

School of Materials Science and Engineering