Research Assistant (Physics)

Nanyang Technological University; Singapore; On-site; SGD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

NTU Singapore's School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences invites a Research Assistant to support work in structured light, topological photonics, and 2D-material optical systems. The role covers optical simulation, experimental characterization, data analysis and lab support for nanophotonics projects.

You will collaborate with PhD students, postdocs, and external collaborators to advance project deliverables and develop new experimental directions in advanced photonics.

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor degree qualification degree in Physics or related field.
• 1–2 years of relevant research experience in optics/photonics.
• H hands‑on experience in structured light, thin-film optics, micro/nano optics, or 2D materials.
• Familiarity with optical simulation software (FDTD, COMSOL, MATLAB etc.) and experimental characterization tools (ellipsometry, Raman, AFM, SEM, EBL etc.).
• Proficiency in hard skills: optical thin‑film simulation, micro/nano fabrication, optical path construction, data analysis, and programming (MATLAB/Python etc.).
• Competent in soft skills: independent problem-solving, collaborative teamwork, time management, and attention to detail.
• Interpersonal skills: ability to work independently and in a team; meticulous and well‑organised.

Responsibilities

• Conduct theoretical simulation and design of optical devices and systems using standard electromagnetic simulation tools.
• Perform optical experiments and characterization, including light-field measurement, spectroscopy, and microscopy.
• Assist in sample preparation, fabrication, and basic cleanroom processes for optical and 2D-material devices.
• Analyze experimental data, prepare reports, manuscripts, and presentations for internal and external dissemination.
• Maintain lab equipment, ensure safety compliance, and assist with day-to-day laboratory operations and procurement.
• Collaborate with PhD students, postdocs, and external collaborators to support project deliverables.

Skills

Structured light

Optics/photonics

Data analysis

Programming (MATLAB/Python)

Education

Bachelor degree in Physics or related field

Tools

FDTD

COMSOL

MATLAB

Python

Job description

The School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (SPMS) at NTU is a leading centre for physics, mathematics, and interdisciplinary research. We are looking for a Research Assistant to support research in structured light, topological photonics, and 2D-material-based optical systems, contributing to NTU’s research mission in advanced photonics and light–matter interactions. The role will focus on optical simulation, experimental characterization, data analysis, and general laboratory support for projects in nanophotonics and structured light. The role will also contribute to ongoing projects in structured light and topological photonics, with opportunities to develop new experimental and theoretical directions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct theoretical simulation and design of optical devices and systems using standard electromagnetic simulation tools.
• Perform optical experiments and characterization, including light-field measurement, spectroscopy, and microscopy.
• Assist in sample preparation, fabrication, and basic cleanroom processes for optical and 2D-material devices.
• Analyze experimental data, prepare reports, manuscripts, and presentations for internal and external dissemination.
• Maintain lab equipment, ensure safety compliance, and assist with day-to-day laboratory operations and procurement.
• Collaborate with PhD students, postdocs, and external collaborators to support project deliverables.

Job Requirements

• Minimum Bachelor degree qualification degree in Physics or related field
• At least 1–2 years of relevant research experience in optics/photonics, with hands‑on experience in structured light, thin-film optics, micro/nano optics, or 2D materials.
• Familiarity with optical simulation software (FDTD, COMSOL, MATLAB etc.) and experimental characterization tools (ellipsometry, Raman, AFM, SEM, EBL etc.).
• Proficiency in hard skills: optical thin‑film simulation, micro/nano fabrication, optical path construction, data analysis, and programming (MATLAB/Python etc.).
• Competent in soft skills: independent problem-solving, collaborative teamwork, time management, and attention to detail.
• Interpersonal skills: ability to work independently and in a team; meticulous and well‑organised.

We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Hiring Institution: NTU A research-intensive public university, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) has 33,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students in the Engineering, Business, Science, Humanities, Arts, & Social Sciences, and Graduate colleges. It also has a medical school, the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, established jointly with Imperial College London. NTU is also home to world‑class autonomous institutes – the National Institute of Education, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Earth Observatory of Singapore, and Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering – and various leading research centres such as the Nanyang Environment & Water Research Institute (NEWRI) and Energy Research Institute @ NTU (ERI@N). Ranked amongst the world’s top universities by QS, NTU has also been named the world’s top young university for the past seven years. The University’s main campus is frequently listed among the Top 15 most beautiful university campuses in the world and has 57 Green Mark‑certified (equivalent to LEED‑certified) buildings, of which 95% is certified Green Mark Platinum. Apart from its main campus, NTU also has a campus in Novena, Singapore’s healthcare district. Under the NTU Smart Campus vision, the University harnesses the power of digital technology and tech‑enabled solutions to support better learning and living experiences, the discovery of new knowledge, and the sustainability of resources. For more information, visit www.ntu.edu.sg About NIE About RSIS About LKCMedicine About NTUItive