Research Engineer (Biomass Processing and Bioprocess Development) - LH1

As a University of Applied Learning, Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT.

We are seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Research Engineer (Biomass Processing and Bioprocess Development) to support an exciting research programme focused on lignocellulosic biomass processing and sustainable bioprocess development. The successful candidate will work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) and research team to conduct research spanning feedstock preparation, biomass pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, microbial fermentation, and analytical characterization. The role offers opportunities to contribute to scientific publications, collaborate with academic and industry partners, and develop expertise in biomass conversion and biorefinery technologies.

Job Responsibilities

The Research Engineer will support the successful delivery of the research programme through the following activities:

• Design, plan, and execute research experiments under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI).
• Conduct laboratory research activities, including feedstock preparation, biomass pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, and microbial fermentation.
• Perform sample preparation, HPLC analyses, enzyme activity assays, and other analytical procedures to support project objectives.
• Assist in the maintenance, calibration, and safe operation of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
• Maintain high-quality experimental records and ensure robust data management, quality control, and research documentation practices.
• Analyse, interpret, and present experimental results using Excel, Python, MATLAB, or other appropriate scientific computing tools.
• Contribute to feedstock readiness assessments and the development of evaluation frameworks and decision-support matrices.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, conference presentations, scientific manuscripts, and project deliverables.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations, standard operating procedures, and good research practices.
• Provide technical guidance and support to undergraduate students in laboratory techniques, experimental methodologies, and laboratory safety practices.
• Undertake other research-related duties as assigned by the PI.
• The candidate is to communicate with all relevant internal and external stakeholders as required to meet the project deliverables.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Food Science, or a closely related discipline.

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in HPLC operation, method execution, instrument maintenance, and troubleshooting, fermentation processes, microbiological techniques, enzyme activity assays, and experimental data analysis using Excel, Python, MATLAB, or equivalent software tools.

• Proven experience in laboratory research, including accurate record-keeping, data management, and adherence to good laboratory practices.

• Strong ability to plan, execute, analyse, and troubleshoot experimental studies in a systematic and rigorous manner.

• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.

• Experience in biomass preparation and processing, lignocellulosic biomass conversion, biomass pretreatment, cellulase assays, bioconversion, biorefinery technologies, or bioeconomy-related research will be an advantage.

• Experience with biomass pretreatment reactors, scientific writing, publication preparation, or industry-linked research projects will be an advantage.

Key Competencies

The candidate should demonstrate:

• Strong passion for sustainable bioprocessing, biomass valorisation, and bioresource utilisation.
• Strong laboratory, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in analytical instrumentation and techniques, particularly HPLC.
• Strong quantitative, data analysis, and research documentation skills.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic research environment while collaborating effectively with team members.
• Commitment to laboratory safety, scientific integrity, and research excellence.
• Interest in mentoring and supporting undergraduate students in research activities.