Senior Research Engineer I, Composites & Structural, IMRE

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR – Agency for Science, Technology and Research in Singapore is seeking a motivated researcher to characterize advanced metallic and ceramic materials. You will work with state-of-the-art facilities to study microstructure, composition, and performance of coatings and synthesized materials.

You will design and execute experiments, analyze data, and prepare technical reports. Collaboration with PI, researchers, and industry partners is essential, and mentoring of junior researchers is

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, or a closely related discipline.
• Hands-on experience with advanced materials characterization techniques such as SEM, XRD, XRF, Spark OES, optical microscopy, mechanical testing, or related analytical instruments.
• Strong understanding of materials science fundamentals, including microstructure–property relationships, material degradation mechanisms, fracture and failure analysis, and structural integrity.
• Experience in metallic materials, ceramic materials, coatings, additive manufacturing, thermal spray, or related research areas will be an advantage.
• Fresh graduates with relevant project or research experience are welcome to apply.

Responsibilities

• Characterize metallic and ceramic materials using SEM, XRD, XRF, Spark OES, OM, and mechanical testing.
• Design and execute experiments to study microstructure, composition, and properties of materials and coatings.
• Analyze data, prepare technical reports, and provide regular updates to the PI and collaborators.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and industry partners to meet project milestones.
• Mentor junior researchers, students, and interns where appropriate.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Independent researcher

Team collaboration

Self-motivated

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Materials Science and Engineering

Tools

SEM

XRD

XRF

Spark OES

Optical Microscopy

Universal Mechanical Testing

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking a passionate, self-motivated, and highly motivated researcher to join our team in the characterization of advanced metallic and ceramic materials. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with state-of-the-art characterization facilities and contribute to cutting-edge research in materials science and engineering, with applications spanning advanced manufacturing, surface engineering, and industrial technologies.

Roles And Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive characterization of metallic and ceramic materials using a wide range of analytical techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Universal Mechanical Testing, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), Optical Microscopy (OM), Spark Optical Emission Spectroscopy (Spark OES), and other advanced materials characterization techniques.
• Design and execute experiments to investigate the microstructure, composition, mechanical properties, and performance of synthesized materials and coatings.
• Analyze, interpret and evaluate experimental data, and prepare technical reports and regular updates.
• Work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI), researchers, industry partners, and multidisciplinary collaborators to achieve research objectives and project milestones.
• Provide technical expertise in materials characterization and failure analysis.
• Prepare samples and establish appropriate characterization protocols in accordance with research objectives and laboratory best practices.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) regulations, laboratory safety procedures, and good laboratory practices.
• Coordinate the procurement of laboratory consumables and equipment, and liaise with vendors and suppliers on quotations, purchasing, servicing, and maintenance.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and continuously improve laboratory equipment to ensure reliable and efficient operation.
• Mentor junior researchers, students, and interns where appropriate, while fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Work independently as well as collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams to deliver high-quality scientific outcomes.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, or a closely related discipline.
• Hands-on experience with advanced materials characterization techniques such as SEM, XRD, XRF, Spark OES, optical microscopy, mechanical testing, or related analytical instruments.
• Strong understanding of materials science fundamentals, including microstructure–property relationships, material degradation mechanisms, fracture and failure analysis, and structural integrity.
• Experience in metallic materials, ceramic materials, coatings, additive manufacturing, thermal spray, or related research areas will be an advantage.
• Fresh graduates with relevant project or research experience are welcome to apply.

Other Requirements

• Proven ability to design and execute research independently while managing multiple tasks and meeting project deadlines.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and industrial partners.
• Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and eager to learn new characterization techniques and expand into emerging research areas.
• The successful candidate will have access to advanced materials characterization facilities and opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and industry partners while contributing to impactful research in advanced materials and manufacturing technologies.