Research Fellow (Acoustical engineering) - WX5

Singapore Institute of Technology; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Singapore Institute of Technology is seeking a Research Fellow (Acoustical engineering) to lead the development of ultrasonic transducer systems for antifouling on ship hulls and to validate performance in lab and field trials.

The role involves advanced numerical simulations (ANSYS), experimental prototyping, data analysis across acoustic, mechanical, and biological domains, and collaboration with students and industry partners.

Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field; expertise in ultrasound systems and wave propagation is an advantage.
• Proficiency in finite element modeling using tools like ANSYS; knowledge of piezoelectricity is a plus.
• Experience in experimental design and prototyping, especially with transducers or marine equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, fabrication, and integration of ultrasonic transducer systems for antifouling on marine hulls.
• Perform advanced numerical simulations with ANSYS or equivalent to model wave propagation and optimize transducer performance.
• Design and execute experiments, laboratory and field tests to evaluate antifouling effectiveness and bio-compatibility.
• Analyse multi-domain datasets and generate technical reports, journal publications, and IP documentation.
• Coordinate across interdisciplinary teams to meet project milestones and deliverables.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables.
• Handle ad-hoc duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Skills

FEM analysis

Experimental design

Technical reporting

Independent researcher

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Finite Element Analysis

Job description

Job Description

Research Fellow (Acoustical engineering) - WX5
Posting Start Date: 27/08/2026
Schemes of Service: Research
Division: Engineering
Employment Type: Fixed Term
As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Biofouling on ship hulls imposes substantial fuel, maintenance and downtime costs, and growing environmental restrictions on biocidal coatings have created strong demand for non-toxic alternatives. This project investigates ultrasonic methods for biofouling prevention on vessels berthed for extended periods, and aims to develop and validate a working prototype system. The work spans numerical modelling of acoustic wave propagation through realistic hull structures, laboratory-scale experimental validation, design and integration of the prototype hardware, and field trials in a real marine environment to assess antifouling performance and energy efficiency. The project is interdisciplinary, combining structural acoustics, finite element simulation, transducer and electronics design, and marine biology, and is carried out in collaboration with an industry/agency partner.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the design, fabrication, and integration of ultrasonic transducer systems for antifouling applications on marine hull structures. Biofouling background is advantageous.
• Conduct advanced numerical simulations using ANSYS or equivalent FEM tools to model surface acoustic wave propagation and optimize transducer performance.
• Design and execute experimental protocols, including laboratory and field testing, to evaluate antifouling effectiveness and safe biological interaction with other marine organisms.
• Analyse complex multi-domain datasets (acoustic, mechanical, biological) and generate technical reports, journal publications, and intellectual property documentation.
• Coordinate across interdisciplinary teams which include students, in the areas of marine biology, mechanical engineering, and naval architecture, to ensure project milestones and deliverables are met.
• To liaise and communicate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met.
• Any other ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor.

Job Requirements

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Acoustics, Marine Engineering, or related field. Ability to demonstrate additional expertise in ultrasonic systems and wave propagation is an advantage.
• Proficiency in finite element modeling, particularly in tools like ANSYS. Understanding of piezoelectricity is an advantage.
• Experience in experimental design and prototyping, especially involving transducers, vibration measurement, or marine equipment.
• Familiarity with biofouling mechanisms or marine biology is highly desirable.
• Proven track record of independent research, including high-impact publications.