Postdoctoral Fellow – Non‑Equilibrium Ceramic Processing

About the role

The School of Materials Science and Engineering at NTU seeks a motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to lead research on non‑equilibrium processing of multifunctional ceramics. The successful candidate will employ ultrafast heating techniques to create novel ceramic structures with exceptional optical and mechanical properties.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects on non‑equilibrium sintering, delivering milestones on schedule.
• Develop multi‑step sintering schedules to “freeze‑in” metastable phases and avoid unwanted crystallisation.
• Perform comprehensive material characterization using X‑ray diffraction, SEM/TEM, and UV‑Vis‑NIR spectroscopy.
• Supervise undergraduate and graduate students, ensuring laboratory safety and proper data analysis.
• Prepare high‑impact manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences.
• Maintain specialised sintering equipment and coordinate procurement of consumables.

Required profile

• PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum two years of experience with advanced sintering methods such as Ultra‑High‑Speed (UHS), Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) or Flash Sintering.
• Proficiency in nanoscale characterization techniques and optical/mechanical property testing.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage tight timelines and lead sub‑projects.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; at least two first‑author publications in reputable journals.

Required skills

• Advanced sintering techniques: UHS, SPS, Flash Sintering.
• Ceramic processing and dopant management.
• Nanoscale characterization: SEM, XRD, TEM/EDX.
• Optical spectroscopy (UV‑Vis‑NIR) and mechanical property testing.