Research Fellow (Surface Chemistry on Fiber Materials)

The School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) provides a vibrant and nurturing environment for staff and students to carry out inter-disciplinary research in key areas such as Computational Materials Science, Characterisation Materials Science, Defence Composite Materials, Functional Composite Materials, Energy, Nanomaterials, Low Dimensional Materials, Biomaterials Materials, Biological Materials, Bioinspired Materials and Sustainable Materials.

The Wu Research Group in MSE at NTU is working on cutting-edge research and development in textile materials for personalized healthcare and sustainability. We develop functional fiber materials with specific photonic and electronic properties by polymer molecular engineering and fiber structure design. Together with advanced textile technology, machine learning, and life cycle assessment, we aim to create sustainable wearable systems to enhance human well-being.

For more details, please view https://www.ntu.edu.sg/mse/research.

We are looking for a Research Fellow to develop advanced surface modification strategies for fiber materials to achieve tailored interfacial, chemical, and functional properties. The role will focus on the design and implementation of surface chemistry approaches—including chemical grafting, coating, and plasma treatments—for enhancing fiber performance in applications such as sensing, thermoregulation, and biomedical devices, contributing to NTU’s mission of pioneering materials innovation for sustainability and healthcare.

Key Responsibilities:

• Participate in research projects with team members to ensure timely completion of deliverables.
• Lead the design and execution of surface modification processes for fiber materials, including chemical grafting, functional coating, and plasma or other physical treatments.
• Develop and optimize surface chemistry protocols to achieve targeted wettability, adhesion, and biocompatibility.
• Conduct materials characterization using techniques such as XPS, FTIR, SEM, AFM, and contact angle measurements.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on interdisciplinary projects in smart textiles, wearable electronics, and biomedical applications.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in surface chemistry techniques and analytical methods.
• Assist in grant writing and preparation of research proposals.
• Maintain laboratory operations, including equipment upkeep, procurement of consumables, and liaison with suppliers.
• Prepare high-quality publications, technical reports, and presentations to disseminate research outcomes.

Job Requirements:

• PhD degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Textile Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong hands-on experience in surface modification techniques for fiber or polymeric materials, such as chemical grafting, functional coating, or plasma treatment.
• Proficiency in surface and interface characterisation methods (e.g., XPS, FTIR, SEM, AFM, contact angle measurement).
• Knowledge of functionalization strategies for enhancing adhesion, wettability, conductivity, and biocompatibility.
• Good written and oral communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality publications and technical reports.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to develop innovative solutions under tight timelines.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Experience in mentoring students or junior researchers is preferred.

We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Hiring Institution: NTU