Research Fellow (Sustainable Composite Materials for Coastal Infrastructure)

National University of Singapore; Singapore; On-site; SGD 54,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The National University of Singapore invites a Research Fellow to join an applied project on bio-based FRP composites for coastal infrastructure protection in marine environments.

The role involves material characterisation, durability testing, field exposure, and life-cycle assessment, collaborating with Fyfe Asia Pte Ltd and academic partners to translate sustainable FRP technologies into practical coastal protection solutions in Singapore.

Qualifications

• PhD required in Civil/Environmental Engineering or related discipline.
• Strong background in FRP composites, corrosion protection, and marine durability.
• Experience with laboratory testing, field exposure studies, and life-cycle assessment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct material characterisation of bio-based FRP composites, including mechanical and physical property testing.
• Design and perform durability tests under simulated marine conditions (salt spray, UV, chemical resistance).
• Evaluate corrosion protection performance of FRP-wrapped steel vs conventional methods.
• Assist field investigations at coastal/marine test sites.
• Analyze experimental data and develop service-life insights for FRP-protected structures.
• Contribute to life-cycle cost and carbon emission assessments of bio-based FRP systems.

Skills

FRP composites

Corrosion protection

Marine durability

Sustainable construction materials

Structural materials testing

Education

PhD in Civil/Environmental Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Standards knowledge (ASTM, ISO, ABS)

Job description

Research Fellow (Sustainable Composite Materials for Coastal Infrastructure)

University-Level Unit: College of Design and Engineering

Faculty/Department-Level Unit: Civil and Environmental Engineering

Employee Category: Research Staff

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Posted On: 10/06/2026

Job Description

The National University of Singapore is seeking a motivated Research Fellow to join an applied research project on bio-based Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites for low-carbon corrosion protection of steel structures in severe marine environments.

The project aims to develop and validate sustainable FRP systems derived from bio-based resins as a next‑generation solution for protecting coastal and marine infrastructure. The Research Fellow will work closely with a multidisciplinary team from NUS and industry partner Fyfe Asia Pte Ltd, contributing to laboratory testing, durability assessment, field exposure studies, and life‑cycle evaluation of bio‑based FRP technologies.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on a high‑impact national research project aligned with Singapore’s coastal protection, infrastructure resilience, and sustainability goals. This role offers strong exposure to industry collaboration, applied materials research, marine durability testing, and technology translation.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct material characterisation of bio‑based FRP composites, including mechanical and physical property testing.
• Design and perform durability tests under simulated marine conditions, including salt spray, water resistance, UV exposure, chemical resistance, accelerated aging, and long‑term exposure studies.
• Evaluate the corrosion protection performance of FRP‑wrapped steel and compare it with conventional protection methods such as coatings and galvanizing.
• Support field investigations and exposure testing at coastal or marine test sites.
• Analyze experimental data and develop service‑life insights for FRP‑protected steel structures.
• Assist in life‑cycle cost and carbon emission assessments comparing bio‑based FRP with conventional FRP and traditional corrosion protection technologies.
• Prepare technical reports, research publications, presentations, and project deliverables.
• Collaborate with academic researchers, industry partners, and relevant stakeholders to support technology validation and translation.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to contribute to a timely and impactful research project addressing one of the most pressing challenges for coastal cities: protecting critical infrastructure in harsh marine environments while reducing carbon emissions. You will work with a multidisciplinary academic‑industry team, gain hands‑on experience in advanced FRP materials and marine durability research, and help translate sustainable materials technology into real‑world coastal protection applications in Singapore and beyond.

Job Requirements

• Possess a PhD in Civil Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong background in one or more of the following areas:
  • FRP composites or polymer‑based materials/
  • Corrosion protection of steel structures/
  • Marine durability of construction materials/
  • Sustainable construction materials/
  • Structural materials testing/
• Familiarity with relevant standards such as ASTM, ISO, ACI, ABS, or equivalent testing and design guidelines would be advantageous.
• Ability to conduct independent research, analyze data rigorously, and prepare high‑quality technical reports and publications.
• Good communication skills (Written and spoken) and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team involving university researchers and industry partners.
• Open to fixed‑term contract.

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