Research Engineer (Digital Twin Platform & Software Architecture)

National University of Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

National University of Singapore is seeking a Research Engineer to architect a Digital Twin Platform for construction robots. The role involves developing software that connects real-time data with digital models for enhanced tracking and visualization of construction processes. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a related field, strong full-stack development skills, and knowledge of 3D rendering technologies. A collaborative approach with external partners is essential, and the position is open to fixed-term contracts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field required.
• Strong full-stack development skills in modern technologies.
• Proficiency in 3D rendering and visualization tools necessary.

Responsibilities

• Develop Digital Twin Platform for real-time site reconstruction.
• Implement algorithms for progress tracking against BIM models.
• Design a scalable backend architecture with visualization dashboard.

Skills

Full-stack development skills

3D rendering and game engine technologies

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, Engineering or related field

Tools

Node.js

React/Vue

Python backend frameworks

Unity

Unreal Engine

WebGL

Three.js

Job description

Job Title: Research Engineer (Digital Twin Platform & Software Architecture)

University-Level Unit: College of Design and Engineering

Faculty/Department-Level Unit: Civil and Environmental Engineering

Employee Category: Research Staff

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Posting Start Date: 05/05/2026

Job Description

NUS is hiring a Research Engineer to architect and develop a centralized Digital Twin Platform (DTP) for a fleet of construction robots. As the lead for Track 2 at NUS, he/she will be required to build the software bridge that connects real-time on-site physical data with digital models, enabling advanced progress tracking and automated task visualization. He/she will need to collaborate closely with the Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre (ARTC) to integrate our DTP with their Robot Management Framework (RMF).

Key Responsibilities

• Develop a comprehensive Digital Twin Platform capable of processing point clouds and video analytics for real-time site reconstruction.
• Implement algorithms for As-built vs. As-designed comparison to autonomously track construction progress against BIM models.
• Design and deploy a scalable backend architecture and an interactive 3D frontend visualization dashboard for the DTP and RMF.
• Ensure seamless API integration and data pipeline synchronization with external fleet management frameworks (including PM hoist systems and dynamic scheduling engines).
• Lead the software engineering lifecycle of the digital platform, from tabletop prototype to full field deployment.

Job Requirements

• Possess at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong full-stack development skills (e.g., Node.js, React/Vue, Python backend frameworks).
• Proficiency in 3D rendering and game engine technologies (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine, WebGL, Three.js) for digital twin visualization.
• Familiarity with BIM standards (IFC, Revit) and spatial databases is a strong plus.
• Excellent software architecture design capabilities and experience with cloud/edge computing deployment.
• Good written and spoken communication skills.
• Open to fixed term contract.