Senior Researcher (Aerogel | Powder-Particle Modification Expert)

PRIMESTAFF MANAGEMENT SERVICES PTE LTD; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading innovator in advanced materials is seeking a Senior Researcher to join their R&D team in Singapore. The role focuses on powder-particle modification within aerogel technologies, requiring a minimum of 6-8 years' experience in R&D and a strong foundation in materials science. Responsibilities include leading innovative projects, conducting experiments, and developing formulations. The ideal candidate possesses technical expertise and a proven track record in advanced characterization methods. Join an exciting fast-paced environment and contribute to groundbreaking innovations in thermal insulation and energy storage.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6–8 years of related R&D experience in materials science, chemistry, or chemical engineering.
• Extensive hands-on experience in the formulation, development, and optimization of aerogel materials.
• Strong foundation in organic/inorganic particle synthesis and development of composites.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute advanced R&D projects, designing and running experiments.
• Develop innovative formulations and optimize processes for particle properties.
• Prepare detailed research reports and maintain meticulous records of R&D activities.

Skills

Technical Expertise in Materials Science or Chemistry

Specialization in Aerogel or Thermal Insulation Materials

Proficiency in Advanced Characterization & Testing Methods

Formulation, Prototyping & Benchmarking

Process Optimization, Scale‑Up & Technology Transfer

Strong Documentation, Safety & IP Awareness

Problem-Solving & Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering

Tools

BET surface analysis

TGA

DSC

SALD

SEM

FTIR

Rheometry

Job description

Our client is a leading innovator in advanced material solutions, specializing in the development of high-performance aerogel technologies for thermal insulation, energy storage, and sustainable applications. With a focus on pioneering research, cutting‑edge particle engineering, and scalable manufacturing methods, they are driving material science forward to meet the demands of industries seeking superior performance and environmental responsibility. As part of their continued growth, they are seeking a Senior Researcher to join their R&D team and lead the next wave of innovation in aerogel materials, with a particular focus on powder‑particle modification – especially surface and size modification – to unlock next‑generation performance.

Position: Senior Researcher (Aerogel | Powder‑Particle Modification Expert)

Location: Singapore – Science Park

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Researcher with deep expertise in powder‑particle modification, particularly in the surface and size modification of aerogel particles. You will lead and execute advanced R&D projects, designing and running experiments, developing innovative formulations, and optimizing processes to control particle properties for maximum performance. This role spans the full cycle from lab‑scale innovation to process scale‑up, ensuring safety compliance, meeting quality standards, and contributing to intellectual property.

Your proven track record in complex materials research, mastery of particle engineering techniques, and ability to translate surface and size modification expertise into commercially viable products will be key in delivering solutions that meet stringent performance, quality, and commercial targets.

7 MUST‑HAVE Requirements

1. Advanced Technical Expertise in Materials Science or Chemistry

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 6–8 years of related R&D experience in materials science, chemistry, or chemical engineering.
• Strong foundation in organic/inorganic particle synthesis, material formulation, and development of composites, coatings, or particle‑based systems.

2. Specialization in Aerogel or Thermal Insulation Materials

• Extensive hands‑on experience in the formulation, development, and optimization of aerogel materials or other thermal insulation products.
• Proven expertise in powder‑particle modification, with advanced knowledge in surface chemistry modification, particle size distribution control, morphology engineering, and their impact on aerogel performance.
• In‑depth knowledge of particle and powder technology, including rheology, caking behaviour, flow characterization, packing, particle interaction, and powder characterization.

3. Proficiency in Advanced Characterization & Testing Methods

• Skilled in BET surface analysis, TGA, DSC, SALD, SEM, FTIR, rheometry, mechanical testing, and surface analysis.
• Ability to design and conduct robust testing protocols, interpret test data, define product specifications, and iterate formulations/designs for improvement.

4. Formulation, Prototyping & Benchmarking

• Develop and test prototypes with targeted surface properties and particle sizes to meet defined specifications, quality standards, competitor benchmarks, and customer requirements.
• Utilize in‑house test equipment or engage external testing institutes to assess prototype performance and regulatory compliance.

5. Process Optimization, Scale‑Up & Technology Transfer

• Proven ability to move from lab‑scale experimentation to pilot or production‑scale processes.
• Experience in collaborating with manufacturing teams for process optimization, quality control, and technology transfer.
• Identify and evaluate new raw materials, processing equipment, and technologies for synthesis and optimization.

6. Strong Documentation, Safety & IP Awareness

• Prepare detailed research reports, SOPs, and technical documentation.
• Maintain meticulous records and databases of all R&D activities.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety requirements, quality compliance, and contribution to patents or other intellectual property.

7. Problem‑Solving & Cross‑Disciplinary Collaboration

• Strong critical thinking and problem‑solving skills with proven ability to address complex material challenges, especially in particle and surface modification.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to work both independently and collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and commercial functions.

This Role is Perfect for You If…

• You are passionate about pushing the boundaries of material innovation, particularly in aerogels and other high‑performance particle‑based materials.
• You thrive on combining scientific curiosity with practical application, transforming research concepts into commercially viable products.
• You enjoy working in a collaborative, fast‑paced R&D environment where your contributions directly shape next‑generation material solutions.
• You are driven by the challenge of solving complex technical problems that have real‑world industrial and environmental impact.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.