Kerja Sepenuh Masa, Graduate Research Assistant di Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka Melaka - Maukerja

Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) / Full-Time PhD Researcher

Institution: Faculty of Mechanical Technology & Engineering (FTKM), Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM)

Project: Transformative Development of OPEFB-Faced Sandwich Composites with Recycled PET Foam Cores for Automotive Low-Velocity Impact Energy Absorption

Funding Scheme: Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (KPT) GET Grant Phase 2 (2026) — RM 192,000.00

Tenure: 36 Months (Full-Time PhD / Graduation on Time)

Stipend: Up to RM 3,000.00 / month

Role Overview

We are seeking a motivated Full-Time Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) concurrently pursuing a PhD in Engineering at UTeM. You will lead research on sustainable automotive crash structures, combining Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (OPEFB) natural fibres with 100% recycled PET (rPET) foam cores.

Key Responsibilities

Fabrication: Treat natural fibres and manufacture sandwich composite panels via vacuum infusion or compression moulding.

Mechanical & Impact Testing: Execute quasi-static and drop-weight low-velocity impact tests (ASTM D7136).

Numerical Modelling: Develop and validate 3D dynamic impact models using Abaqus or LS-DYNA.

Dissemination: Publish high-impact Scopus/WoS journal articles and present at conferences.

Requirements

Education: Master’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Materials, Automotive, or Polymer Engineering (or a First-Class Bachelor’s degree eligible for direct PhD admission).

Citizenship: Malaysian citizen (as per KPT GRA regulations).

Skills: Hands-on experience in composite fabrication, mechanical testing, or FEA simulation is an added advantage.

Commitment: Dedicated to full-time study and 36-month completion (GOT).

What We Offer

Monthly allowance up to RM 3,000 / month.

Covered publication fees (APC) and conference travel registrations.

Dedicated access to UTeM’s composite laboratories and computing clusters.

How to Apply

Email your CV, Academic Transcripts, and a brief Statement of Interest to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siti Hajar binti Sheikh Md Fadzullah at:

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Subject: ⁠Application: PhD GRA - KPT GET (OPEFB-rPET Composites) - [Your Name]⁠