Research Associate (Materials Science & Engineering / Mechanical Engineering / Chemical Engineering)

Nanyang Technological University Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Singapore Centre for 3D Printing (SC3DP) at NTU invites applications for a Research Associate to advance an industry-collaborative metal additive manufacturing project. You will focus on microstructural analysis, mechanical property evaluation, and solving practical engineering challenges for translation to industry.

Ideal candidates hold a master’s degree in a related field and have hands-on experience with SEM, EBSD, XRD and mechanical testing.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Hands-on experience with advanced characterization techniques (SEM, EBSD, XRD) and mechanical testing.
• Strong understanding of structure–property relationships in metallic systems.
• Excellent data analysis and ability to prepare technical reports.
• Familiarity with materials used in additive manufacturing is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct microstructural analysis using SEM, EBSD, XRD and optical microscopy.
• Perform mechanical tests (tensile, fatigue, hardness, impact where applicable).
• Analyze data, visualize results, and prepare detailed technical reports for industrial partners.
• Evaluate post-processing effects on material properties and identify defects.

Skills

Data analysis

Technical reporting

Independent work

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Education

Master's degree in Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or related field

Tools

SEM

EBSD

XRD

Optical microscopy

Tensile testing

Fatigue testing

Hardness testing

Job description

The Singapore Centre for 3D Printing (SC3DP) is a research centre conducting fundamental and applied research in all aspects related to additive manufacturing. Our vision is to be the world leader in 3D Printing and a wellspring of knowledge, delivering state of the art and innovative solutions to the industry. SC3DP is at the forefront of developing advanced technologies and high-impact research in areas such biomedical, construction, aerospace, marine and offshore. It is one of the very few research centres globally with multi-sector 3D printing expertise. SC3DP’s research achievements, high-level industry collaboration, comprehensive facilities and resources have positioned it as a leading hub for 3D printing research and innovation globally.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate with a strong engineering background to advance an industry-collaborative research project on metal additive manufacturing. This role is mainly focused on the advanced characterization, microstructural analysis, and mechanical property evaluation of 3D printed samples. The objective of this role is to assist in solving practical engineering challenges in industrial applications and facilitate the industrial translation of our research outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Material Characterizations: Conduct microstructural analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and optical microscopy etc.

• Mechanical Testing: Perform tensile, fatigue, hardness, and impact testing to evaluate the performance of the printed components.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze testing data, visualize data, prepare detailed technical reports, and present research findings to the industrial partners.

• Quality Assessment: Evaluate the impact of post-processing on material properties, and identify defects (e.g., porosity, lack of fusion).

Job Requirements:

• A master’s degree in Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or a closely related technical field.

• Extensive hands‑on experience with advanced material characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, EBSD, XRD, optical microscopy) and mechanical testing equipment (e.g., tensile, fatigue, and hardness testers).

• Deep understanding of material science and structure-property relationships in metallic systems.

• Strong analytical capabilities with a proven ability to interpret complex testing data and independently prepare comprehensive technical reports.

• Familiarity with materials commonly used in additive manufacturing is highly desirable.

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

Hiring Institution: NTU