Scientist/Senior Scientist

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR’s FEAT Centre seeks a Scientist or Senior Scientist to model plasma–material interactions for fusion applications. You’ll apply atomistic and multiscale simulations to sputtering, erosion and surface damage, supporting experiments and informing plasma-facing component design.

You will collaborate with internal and international partners, advance multiscale modelling, and develop workflows to integrate different modelling methods. A strong computational background and PhD are required.

Qualifications

• PhD in materials science, physics, nuclear engineering, computational science or closely related field.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply MD, Monte Carlo, and multiscale modelling to PMI under fusion-relevant conditions.
• Contribute to multiscale and multiphysics simulation capabilities.
• Support reduced-order or surrogate models for coupling between modelling approaches.
• Analyse, manage and curate simulation data with reproducibility in mind.
• Interpret results to provide insights into sputtering, erosion and near-surface damage.
• Collaborate with internal and international teams and publish research findings.

Skills

Computational modelling

Python/C/C++/Julia

Surface/radiation-driven phenomena

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Materials Science/Physics/Nuclear Eng/Computational Science

Tools

Python

C/C++

Julia

Job description

Position Summary

The FEAT Centre is seeking a Scientist or Senior Scientist to contribute to modelling and simulation of plasma–material interactions for fusion applications. This role focuses on atomistic and multiscale simulations to understand sputtering, erosion, and surface damage, supporting experiments and informing the design of plasma-facing components through integrated simulation workflows. The FEAT Centre is also seeking a Scientist or Senior Scientist to advance modelling and simulation of plasma–material interactions (PMI) for fusion energy applications. You will apply atomistic and multiscale simulation approaches to investigate sputtering, surface erosion, and near-surface damage under reactor-relevant conditions, supporting experimental programmes and informing the design of plasma-facing components.

Who we are looking for

This position is part of the Plasma Physics and Diagnostics Department (PPDD), which hosts expertise in edge plasma modelling and diagnostics. You will work closely with internal modelling and experimental teams and collaborate extensively with international partners across academia, national laboratories and industry, reflecting Singapore’s strong engagement in global fusion research. You will contribute to the development of multiscale and multiphysics modelling capabilities that connect fundamental material processes with larger-scale plasma behaviour and experimental observations. Opportunities exist to develop computational workflows and surrogate modelling approaches that enable integration across different modelling methods.

What you'll be doing

• Develop and apply molecular dynamics (MD) and complementary modelling approaches (e.g., Monte Carlo, mesoscale, multiscale methods) to investigate plasma–material interactions under fusion-relevant conditions.
• Contribute to the development of multiscale and multiphysics simulation capabilities.
• Support the development of reduced-order or surrogate models to facilitate coupling between modelling approaches and integration into broader simulation frameworks.
• Analyse, manage, and curate simulation data, ensuring reproducibility, traceability, and adherence to good data management practices.
• Interpret simulation results to provide insights into sputtering, erosion, and surface damage processes relevant to plasma-facing components.
• Collaborate with internal teams and international partners on modelling studies, including validation and comparison with experimental data.
• Publish research findings, present at conferences, and contribute to collaborative research projects and proposals.

What You'll Bring

Must-Haves

• PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Computational Science, or a closely related field. Candidates without prior industry or postdoctoral experience are encouraged to apply.
• Strong background in computational materials modelling (e.g., molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo, or related simulation approaches).
• Demonstrated knowledge of surface and radiation-driven phenomena (e.g., sputtering, erosion, ion implantation, collision cascades).
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., Python, C/C++, Julia) and experience with simulation tools relevant to materials modelling.
• Strong communication skills in written and spoken English, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.

Good-to-Haves

• Background in fusion science or plasma-facing materials.
• Experience with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and/or machine-learning interatomic potentials.
• Experience with multiscale or transport simulations relevant to plasma–material interactions.
• Experience in high-performance computing (HPC), including GPU acceleration, large-scale simulations, and workflow automation.

What You'll Need to Succeed

• Scientific problem-solving and critical thinking
• Computational modelling and simulation
• Data analysis, management and interpretation
• Research communication (written and oral)
• Collaboration and teamwork in interdisciplinary environments
• Software & workflow practices, including familiarity with version control, reproducible workflows, and structured code development in scientific computing

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work at the forefront of fusion research in a highly collaborative, international environment.
• Access to advanced computational resources and partnerships with leading global institutions.
• A supportive setting for early-career development, alongside opportunities to contribute to impactful, industry-relevant research.