Research Fellow (Experimental Nanomechanics)

ntu; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

NTU’s School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering invites a Research Fellow to lead in-situ experimental mechanics research. The role focuses on MEMS-based platforms inside SEM/TEM environments to study real-time mechanical failure, interfacial phenomena, and coupled problems in low-dimensional materials and energy devices.

You will publish high-impact work, collaborate across disciplines, and mentor students while advancing nanoscale metrology and AI-driven experimentation in alignment with

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant engineering/scientific discipline.
• Strong writing and presentation skills for manuscripts and proposals.
• Collaborative and interdisciplinary team orientation.
• Experience with MEMS, 2D materials, and cleanroom fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Lead cutting-edge in-situ MEMS-based characterization research.
• Plan and conduct in-situ SEM/TEM experiments to study real-time mechanical behavior.
• Publish in high-impact journals and present at conferences.
• Assist in drafting grant proposals and progress reports for funding agencies and industry partners.
• Mentor PhD candidates and undergraduate researchers in experimental methods and data interpretation.
• Ensure lab safety, calibration, and maintenance of key equipment.

Skills

Written and spoken English

Teamwork

2D material devices fabrication

MEMS processing

SEM / TEM operation

Python / MATLAB

Publication record

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Applied Physics, Micro/Nanotechnology or related

Tools

SEM

TEM

Job description

The School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (MAE) is a robust, dynamic and multi-disciplinary international research community comprising of world-class scientists and bright students. MAE prides itself in its excellent research capabilities in areas including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, biomedical, energy, industrial engineering, maritime engineering, robotics, etc. The school is equipped with state-of-the-art research infrastructure, housing a comprehensive range of cluster laboratories, test bedding facilities, research centres/institutes and corporate laboratories. Cutting-edge research in MAE addresses the immediate needs of our industries and supports the nation's long-term development strategies. In the new era of industrial 4.0 and sustainable living, MAE is rigorous in developing new competencies to support the growth and competitiveness of our engineering sector in the global landscape. MAE has grown to be leader in Engineering Research, ranking amongst the top engineering schools in the world.

For more details, please view https://www.ntu.edu.sg/mae/research .

We are looking for a Research Fellow to lead cutting-edge research in in-situ experimental mechanics. The role will focus on developing MEMS-based characterization platforms inside SEM/TEM environments, investigating real-time mechanical failure processes, interfacial phenomena, and mechanical-thermal-electrical coupled problems in low-dimensional materials, energy-storage systems, and semiconductor devices. This position supports the University's strategic mission to advance world-class technological innovation and scientific discovery by pushing the boundaries of nanoscale metrology and AI-driven experimentation. Furthermore, the role contributes to national and global strategic priorities in next-generation semiconductor reliability and sustainable energy storage.

Key Responsibilities:

• MEMS & Platform Development: Design, fabricate, and assemble custom MEMS-based micro-stages and testing devices for precise in-situ mechanical and Multiphysics characterization.
• In-situ Characterization: Plan and conduct advanced in-situ SEM and TEM experiments to monitor mechanical failure, fatigue, and dynamic behavior in real time.
• Publication & Communication: Lead high-impact journal publications and present research findings at international conferences and university seminars.
• Grant & Proposal Support: Assist in drafting research grant proposals, technical reports, and progress updates for funding agencies and industrial partners.
• Student Mentorship: Co-supervise and guide PhD candidates and undergraduate researchers on experimental techniques, data interpretation, and manuscript preparation.
• Equipment Maintenance & Safety: Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and safety protocols for key lab equipment.

Job Requirements:

• Obtained a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Applied Physics, Micro/Nanotechnology, or a related engineering/scientific discipline.
• Strong written and oral communication skills for drafting high-impact manuscripts, grant proposals, and conference presentations.
• Excellent teamwork, interpersonal skills, and ability to collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment.
• Proven track record in 2D material device fabrication, cleanroom microfabrication, or MEMS processing.
• Extensive hands-on experience and proficiency in operating SEM and TEM, ideally with experience in in-situ mechanical, thermal, or electrical testing platforms.
• Proficiency in data analysis and programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for image processing and instrumental control; experience with AI-driven or automated experimental workflows is an advantage.
• A strong publication record in high-impact journals.

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

Hiring Institution: NTU