Research Fellow (Theoretical Modelling)

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE; Singapore; On-site; SGD 45,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

National University of Singapore’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering seeks a Research Associate to advance theory, simulation, and experimental analysis in thermal metamaterials and nonreciprocal photonics. The role spans modelling, multiphysics simulations, and data-driven interpretation of diffusive and thermophotonic systems.

The candidate will contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations, publish findings, and participate in developing new concepts for thermal management

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent in Energy Science and Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, or closely related discipline.
• Background in thermal metamaterials, heat transfer, topological physics, non-Hermitian physics, nanophotonics, thermal photonics, or nonreciprocal thermal systems would be preferred.
• Experience in theoretical modelling and numerical simulation of conductive, convective, radiative, or coupled multiphysics heat-transfer systems.

Responsibilities

• Theoretical Modelling: Develop models for thermal metamaterials and topological thermal systems; analyze multi-physics heat transfer.
• Finite-Element and Multiphysics Simulation: Create custom FE codes and use COMSOL, MATLAB, and Python to solve heat-transfer problems.
• Nanofabrication & Experimental Characterisation: Support device preparation, sample processing, and structural characterization for thermal and photonic experiments.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Manage data from experiments and simulations; prepare reports and publications.

Skills

Thermal metamaterials

Topological physics

Non-Hermitian physics

Nanophotonics

Theoretical modelling

Data analysis

Education

Master's degree in Energy Science and Engineering / Physics / Photonics / Electrical Engineering

Tools

COMSOL Multiphysics

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Job Description

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is seeking a Research Associate to support research in thermal metamaterials, topological physics, non-Hermitian theory, and nonreciprocal thermal photonics. The role will focus on the theoretical modelling, numerical simulation, and experimental analysis of diffusive and thermophotonic systems with engineered heat and light-matter interactions, including but not limited to thermal metamaterials, thermal crystals, topological photonic structures, non-Hermitian photonic lattices, thermal emission platforms, and nanophotonic devices involving conduction, convection, and radiation. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of thermal science, topological physics, non-Hermitian physics, and nonreciprocal heat transport. The appointed candidate will contribute to interdisciplinary research collaborations and the development of new diffusive and thermophotonic concepts with potential applications in thermal management, infrared photonics, sensing, and energy transport.

Responsibilities will involve:

1. Theoretical Modelling

   • Develop theoretical models for thermal metamaterials, topological thermal systems, non-Hermitian transport, and nonreciprocal thermal photonics.
   • Apply many-body heat-transfer theory to analyse conductive, convective, and radiative coupling in complex thermal and thermophotonic systems.
   • Perform band-structure, eigenmode, and topological property calculations for thermal and thermophotonic systems.

2. Finite-Element and Multiphysics Simulation

   • Develop and implement custom finite-element and numerical programs to solve heat-transfer problems in complex geometries and heterogeneous environments.
   • Model heat conduction, convection, radiation, and coupled thermal-optical phenomena under multiple heat-source excitation and complex boundary conditions.
   • Use finite-element simulation tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics, together with MATLAB or Python, to design and optimise thermal crystals, thermal metamaterials, and nanophotonic structures.

3. Nanofabrication & Experimental Characterisation

   • Fabricate thermal crystals, thermal metamaterials, and nanophotonic structures using standard micro- and nanofabrication processes.
   • Support device preparation, sample processing, and structural characterisation for thermal and photonic experiments.
   • Perform optical, infrared, and near-field characterisation using techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, infrared microscopy, and scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy.

4. Data Analysis & Reporting

   • Manage the collection, preprocessing, and large-scale analysis of experimental and simulation datasets.
   • Prepare technical reports, publications, figures, and presentations for academic, project-related, and collaborative research outputs.

5. Project Management & Collaboration

   • Contribute to project planning, timelines, and milestones.
   • Take responsibility for delivering research milestones within project timelines.

6. Innovation & Intellectual Property

   • Contribute to patent filings, technology disclosures, and commercialization efforts.
   • Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at leading conferences.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent degree in Energy Science and Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline from a reputable University/Institute is preferred, or equivalent related experience.
• Candidates with a strong background in thermal metamaterials, heat transfer, topological physics, non-Hermitian physics, nanophotonics, thermal photonics, or nonreciprocal thermal systems would be preferred.
• Experience in theoretical modelling and numerical simulation of conductive, convective, radiative, or coupled multiphysics heat-transfer systems.
• Demonstrated capability in finite-element modelling and custom numerical programming for complex thermal systems, especially systems involving multiple heat sources, heterogeneous environments, and complex boundary conditions.
• Familiarity with simulation and programming tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Python, or equivalent numerical platforms would be advantageous.
• Experience in designing thermal crystals, thermal metamaterials, photonic crystals, nanophotonic structures, or related engineered thermal/photonic systems would be an advantage.
• Good publication record in relevant research areas would be advantageous.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, technical writing, and presentation skills.
• Self-motivated, able to work independently, and collaborate within a diverse team.
• Open to Fixed Term Contract.