Scientist, Composite Materials ( IMRE)

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

The above eligibility criteria are not exhaustive. A*STAR may include additional selection criteria based on its prevailing recruitment policies. These policies may be amended from time to time without notice. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.