Project Overview

The DiSTAP programme addresses deep problems in food production in Singapore and the world by developing a suite of impactful and novel analytical, genetic and biosynthetic technologies. DiSTAP is one of the five Interdisciplinary Research Groups (IRGs) of the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART).  The research engineer will join an interdisciplinary team of chemists, engineers and plant biologists in the development, modification and characterization of functional conjugated polymers with unique optical properties that could potentially be used for cell imaging. These novel tools enables optimal crop production and rapid development of plants suitable for high-density farming and revolutionalizes urban farming strategies.

Responsibilities

• Support the DiSTAP nanosensor team in the development and validation of novel single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT)-based sensors, with a primary focus on Covalent Organic Framework microneedles (COF-MNs) and nanosensors for nutrient sensing.
• Participate in translational research projects alongside external collaborators and open-field commercial plantation partners to drive the commercialization of DiSTAP technologies.
• Work across interdisciplinary team on in-planta studies using nanosensors for the real-time monitoring of plant nutrients, metabolites, and stress responses.
• Play a crucial role in enhancing the throughput of sensor data evaluation by developing, optimizing, and maintaining automated data processing and analysis pipelines.

Requirements

• BSc in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on experience working with nanosensors, nanoparticle synthesis, and materials characterization, particularly regarding their applications in plant biology.
• Strong hands-on laboratory skills and technical proficiency.
• Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills, with the ability to mentor visiting students and interns.
• Ability to effectively communicate research progress through technical reports and poster presentations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

Interested applicants are invited to send in their full CV/resume, cover letter and list of three references (to include reference names and contact information). We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.