Senior Assistant Manager/ Manager (X-ray crystallographer)

ntu; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

NTU's School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology seeks an experienced lab manager/senior assistant manager to lead the X-ray crystallography and XPS facilities. You will manage instrument operation, data collection, structure solving, and reporting for researchers and collaborators.

The role requires a PhD in Chemistry with extensive experience in small-molecule crystallography, strong analytical skills, and the ability to train users, develop SOPs, and ensure safety compliance

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry with 5+ years of experience in small-molecule X-ray crystallography.
• Proven expertise in single-crystal X-ray crystallography and data interpretation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for collaboration with researchers.
• Ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders across platforms and teams.
• Experience in teaching, training, SOP development and lab safety.

Responsibilities

• Oversee X-ray crystallography laboratory management, data collection, structure solving and reporting.
• Maintain instruments, calibration, preventive maintenance and vendor coordination.
• Train users, develop SOPs, deliver lectures and crystallography lab sessions for graduate courses.
• Support XPS laboratory operations and ensure safety and compliance.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Stakeholder coordination

Training and mentoring

Education

PhD in Chemistry

Tools

XRD instrumentation

XPS instrumentation

Job description

The School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CCEB), is seeking an experienced and highly motivated lab manager/senior assistant manager to join our team. The School is committed to developing programmes that offer cutting-edge lifelong learning solutions and globally recognised qualification accessible by aspiring professionals and lifelong learner.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

1. 1. Structural analysis and scientific interpretation

   Assess sample and crystal suitability before and during data collection, and advise researchers on crystal growth, sample preparation and the most suitable technique.

   Interpret diffraction and scattering results for single crystal, powder and nanostructure samples.

   Validate structures and results, and support their deposition in the Structural Database.

   Combine results from X-ray diffraction, XPS and nanostructure analysis to answer the question the researcher is asking, and explain the findings clearly.

   Develop and validate analytical methods, standards and workflows, and advise on equipment upgrades.

2. 2. X-ray Crystallography Laboratory Management and Technical Support

   Maintain and manage the X-ray crystallography laboratory, instruments and related facilities.

   Perform crystal selection, mounting, data collection, structure solving, refinement and preparation of crystallographic reports.

   Ensure proper calibration, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting and coordination with vendors for equipment servicing.

   Maintain proper documentation, sample records, software licences and laboratory safety compliance.

   Support research projects and analytical requirements for faculty, researchers, postgraduate students and external collaborators.

3. 3. User Training, Teaching and Capability Development

   Train and guide new users on X-ray crystallography instrumentation, software and data interpretation.

   Develop user competency, SOPs and training materials for laboratory operations and safety practices.

   Support teaching activities and practical sessions by delivering lectures and crystallography analysis computer lab sessions for graduate courses CM7012/CM6810 (Advanced Chemical Instrumentation).

   Provide consultation and technical advice on crystallographic applications and experimental design.

   Facilitate knowledge transfer for crystallography expertise and laboratory operations.

4. 4. XPS Laboratory Management and Technical Support

   Maintain and manage the XPS laboratory and related analytical instrumentation.

   Train and certify new users on XPS operations, safety procedures and data analysis.

   Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting and coordination with vendors for servicing and repairs.

   Support analytical services and technical consultation for research use.

   Ensure compliance with laboratory safety and operational procedures.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry with at least 5 years of experience in small molecules single crystal X-ray crystallography.
• Doctoral research experience of 3 to 4 years in small molecule single crystal X-ray crystallography will also be considered. Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex or ambiguous results and explain findings clearly to researchers.
• Ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders and manage communication tasks across different platforms.
• Able to perform crystal elucidation.
• Able to operate XRD systems, including operations, maintenance and training.

The appointment title offered will commensurate with candidate's prior work experiences. We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Hiring Institution: NTU