About the Role

The A*STAR Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech) is seeking a highly motivated, independent, and innovative Research Scientist to join the Additive Innovation Centre (AIC). Hosted within A*STAR SIMTech and supported by the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), AIC serves as an A*STAR hub for advancing additive manufacturing (AM) technologies from research to industrial deployment.

We are looking for a scientist with a strong passion for applied research in the area of metal additive manufacturing, particularly Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) and Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM). The successful candidate will conduct applied research while working closely with industry partners, researchers, and engineers to develop innovative manufacturing solutions from concept development and process optimisation through validation and technology translation. This role offers the opportunity to lead cutting-edge R&D projects that bridge scientific innovation with real-world industrial applications across sectors such as aerospace, semiconductor, precision engineering, energy, biomedical, and advanced manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

The Scientist will lead and contribute to research and industry collaborative projects with a primary focus on metal Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF).

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead and execute research programmes in metal LPBF, encompassing process development, materials engineering, and manufacturing technologies.
• Develop innovative processing strategies for conventional and advanced alloys, including aluminium, copper, titanium, nickel-based alloys, steels, and emerging materials for additive manufacturing.
• Design, plan, and conduct scientific investigations using Design of Experiments (DOE) and data-driven methodologies to optimise manufacturing processes.
• Investigate process–structure–property relationships through advanced microstructural characterisation, mechanical testing, and materials analysis.
• Develop robust process windows, parameter optimisation methodologies, and qualification strategies to support industrial adoption of additive manufacturing.
• Perform failure analysis and root-cause investigations to improve manufacturing quality, process robustness, and component reliability.
• Lead and manage industry-funded R&D projects from concept development through technology demonstration and industrial deployment.
• Translate industrial requirements into practical and manufacturable additive manufacturing solutions.
• Provide technical leadership in Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM), process optimisation, component qualification, and manufacturing readiness.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams comprising researchers, engineers, and industry partners to deliver project outcomes and accelerate technology translation.
• Develop and optimise heat treatment and post-processing methodologies to enhance component performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with computational materials researchers on integrated computational materials engineering (ICME), CALPHAD modelling, digital materials design, and AI-enabled alloy and process development.

Job Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Metallurgy, Additive Manufacturing, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated research track record in additive manufacturing, evidenced by high-quality publications, patents, technology development, or industrial innovations.
• Strong expertise in metal additive manufacturing, preferably Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), with knowledge of process development, metallurgy, and materials characterisation.
• Experience leading or contributing to externally funded research and industry collaborative projects.
• Experience working effectively within multi-disciplinary research teams and engaging with industrial partners.
• Strong project management, planning, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Demonstrated scientific curiosity, creativity, and a passion for developing innovative manufacturing technologies.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within collaborative, multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent technical writing, scientific communication, and presentation skills.
• Passion for translating research into industrial impact through technology deployment and commercialisation.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and results-oriented with a positive attitude and strong commitment to research excellence.