Research Associate (Mechanical Engineering / Materials Science and Engineering / Manufacturing Engineering)

The Singapore Centre for 3D Printing (SC3DP) is a research centre conducting fundamental and applied research in all aspects related to additive manufacturing. Our vision is to be the world leader in 3D Printing and a wellspring of knowledge, delivering state of the art and innovative solutions to the industry. SC3DP is at the forefront of developing advanced technologies and high-impact research in areas such biomedical, construction, aerospace, marine and offshore. It is one of the very few research centres globally with multi-sector 3D printing expertise. SC3DP’s research achievements, high-level industry collaboration, comprehensive facilities and resources have positioned it as a leading hub for 3D printing research and innovation globally.

We are looking for a Research Associate to develop and optimize additive manufacturing (AM) process of Mg-alloy of cold plate for thermal management. The role will focus on development of process parameters to optimize the thermal, mechanical and structural properties of Mg-alloy and development of thermal design for Mg cold plate for high heat flux cooling.

In addition, the candidate will be responsible for the design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of additively manufactured Mg-alloy thermal management components, including cold plates, internal cooling channels, and microstructured heat transfer surfaces. The candidate will also investigate the relationships between AM processing conditions, material microstructure, thermal performance, and structural integrity, using both conventional and advanced manufacturing and characterization techniques.

The outcomes of this work will support a research project led by the Principal Investigator, aimed at developing high-performance thermal management solutions for next-generation electronic and energy systems. The project will deliver impactful innovations that address industry needs while enhancing the research reputation of the University.

Key Responsibilities:

The candidate will conduct both experimental and process development research in the additive manufacturing (AM) of Mg-alloy thermal management components for high heat flux cooling applications. The key responsibilities and job scope are:

• Develop and optimize LPBF process parameters for Mg-alloys, including laser power, scan speed, hatch spacing, layer thickness, and scan strategies,

• Perform systematic design-of-experiments (DoE) studies to investigate the relationships between AM process parameters, microstructure, mechanical properties, and thermal performance of Mg-alloys,

• Select and evaluate suitable Mg-alloy powders and feedstock materials for LPBF processing, including powder morphology, particle size distribution, and processability,

• Fabricate and characterize coupon-scale samples for mechanical (e.g., tensile testing), thermal (e.g., thermal conductivity), and microstructural characterization,

• Design and fabricate prototype thermal management components, including Mg-alloy cold plates and heat sinks, for high heat flux cooling applications,

• Investigate the manufacturability, repeatability, reliability, and robustness of LPBF-processed Mg-alloy components and associated post-processing methods,

• Support the integration of additively manufactured Mg-alloy thermal components into thermal management systems for performance evaluation and validation,

• Work closely with project collaborators and researchers on the design, fabrication, and iterative improvement of AM thermal management solutions,

• Assist in the preparation of research reports, journal publications, technical presentations, and project documentation, and

• Collaborate with graduate and undergraduate students involved in related research projects and laboratory activities.

Job Requirements:

Required educational qualification, experience, skills and competencies:

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field,

• Basic knowledge of heat transfer, materials engineering, and manufacturing processes, with exposure to additive manufacturing or metal processing being an advantage,

• Familiarity with laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) or other metal additive manufacturing technologies is preferred,

• Understanding of process parameter optimization, including laser power, scan speed, hatch spacing, layer thickness, and scan strategies,

• Experience or interest in experimental work involving materials fabrication, thermal characterization, mechanical testing, and microstructural analysis,

• Exposure to materials characterization techniques such as optical microscopy, SEM, XRD, tensile testing, or thermal conductivity measurements is an advantage,

• Basic knowledge of Mg-alloys, lightweight metals, or thermal management applications is preferred,

• Familiarity with CAD software and design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) concepts is an advantage,

• Ability to assist in the fabrication, post-processing, and evaluation of additively manufactured thermal management components,

• Good analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment,

• Good teamwork and communication skills, and

• Proficiency in written and spoken English for research work.

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

Hiring Institution: NTU