Job Description

The Institute for Functional Intelligent Materials (I-FIM) is an interdisciplinary Research Centre of Excellence at the National University of Singapore, established in 2021 and led by two internationally recognized leaders in materials science and physics. I-FIM brings together expertise across science and engineering to develop intelligent materials and transformative technologies.

I-FIM is seeking a skilled and motivated Research Assistant with experience in materials growth and characterization to support research at its furnace core facility. You will work closely with research scientists and collaborate with industry representatives, procurement colleagues and safety coordinators.

Your work will include growing graphene and few-layer graphene on metal substrates using chemical vapour deposition (CVD), transferring carbon films to other substrates, and characterizing the resulting materials. Techniques may include Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), electrical measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). You will also help maintain a safe, reliable and effective research environment and contribute to improving experimental processes.

Job Responsibilities

• Grow graphene and few-layer graphene on a range of metal substrates using CVD
• Transfer carbon films to other substrates and assess the quality of the transferred material
• Characterize as-grown and transferred films using techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, AFM, electrical measurements and SEM
• Operate, maintain and troubleshoot research equipment, including high-temperature furnaces, ovens, vacuum systems and gas lines
• Work with researchers and facility stakeholders to plan experiments, coordinate equipment and materials, and support safe operations
• Document experimental procedures and results, communicate findings clearly, and contribute to the improvement of research methods
• Manage procurement from purchase request through delivery and goods receipt

Job Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline, such as chemistry, physics, engineering or nanotechnology. A master’s degree is preferred.
• Substantial experience operating and maintaining research-grade equipment, particularly high-temperature furnaces and ovens, vacuum systems and gas lines
• Strong communication, organization and technical writing skills
• A collaborative approach and willingness to support researchers and colleagues
• A proactive, hands-on attitude and interest in carrying out experiments and improving experimental processes
  
  

Advantageous experience include:

• Experience synthesizing or working with two-dimensional materials, such as graphene or transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs)
• Experience with thin-film deposition and transfer techniques
• Practical experience with Raman spectroscopy, AFM, electrical measurements or SEM
• A record of scientific publications