Kerja Sepenuh Masa, Scientist, Composite Materials di A*STAR - Agency For Science, Technology And Research - Maukerja

Job Description

Position Overview: We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to join an interdisciplinary National Research Foundation’s Investigatorship (NRFI) programme focused on next-generation circular plastic materials enabled by reconfigurable covalent linkage engineering. The successful candidate will conduct hands-on experimental research in monomer/linker design, polymer synthesis, dynamic network formation, materials characterisation, and recycling studies, with emphasis on recyclable/reprocessable thermosets. The role will contribute to high-impact publications, technology disclosures, patents, and application validation with industrial partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesise monomers, dynamic crosslinkers, and polymer networks incorporating reconfigurable covalent linkages.
• Develop recyclable, reprocessable, and repairable thermoset and polyurethane systems with targeted mechanical, thermal, and chemical performance.
• Establish structure-property-process relationships through systematic formulation, network tuning, and performance evaluation.
• Perform thermal, mechanical, rheological, spectroscopic, degradation, and recycling characterisation of polymer materials.
• Support application-oriented validation in recyclable composites, such as carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer matrices, and circular adhesives.
• Investigate recycling, reprocessing, depolymerisation, monomer recovery, and materials recovery under practically relevant conditions.
• Work with modelling, AI, or data teams to structure experimental datasets and enable chemistry-informed design of circular polymer systems.
• Prepare technical reports, manuscripts, invention disclosures, patent filings, and presentations for internal reviews and external stakeholders.
  
  

Key Requirements

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Strong experimental background in polymer synthesis, dynamic covalent chemistry, thermoset networks, or recyclable polymer materials.
• Solid understanding of polymer structure-property relationships, crosslinked network design, and materials performance evaluation.
• Hands-on experience with NMR, FTIR, GPC/SEC, DSC, TGA, DMA, rheology, tensile testing, and/or adhesive or composite testing.
• Track record of high-quality peer-reviewed publications, patents, or technology disclosures in polymer chemistry or advanced materials.
• Experience in recyclable composites, debondable adhesives, fibre-reinforced polymers, or translational materials research is an advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and communicate research outcomes to scientific, programme-management, and industry audiences.
  
  

Competencies

Achieving Outcomes

Demonstrates critical thinking and problem solving skills

Displays clear understanding of the proposed field of study

Effective Communication

Innovativeness

Possesses a strong background in relevant academic / research field