Project Officer / Research Associate – Laboratory Operations (Chemistry)

About the role

The School of Materials Science and Engineering at NTU is establishing a new chemistry research laboratory. The Project Officer/Research Associate will provide operational support to bring the lab online, keep it running safely, and ensure compliance with national regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Support planning and execution of laboratory build‑out, coordinating with the PI, research fellows, facilities management and external contractors.
• Manage equipment specification, procurement, delivery, installation, commissioning and utility requirements (power, gases, ventilation, water, waste).
• Handle day‑to‑day ordering of chemicals, consumables and equipment through the university purchasing system; maintain supplier relationships.
• Maintain chemical inventory, equipment register, monitor spend against budgets and provide data for grant submissions.
• Prepare and submit applications for chemical, hazardous‑substance and equipment licences; maintain licence register and track renewals.
• Draft and update risk assessments, SOPs, chemical handling, storage and waste disposal protocols; deliver safety inductions and support audits.
• Oversee instrument calibration, preventive maintenance, service contracts and first‑line troubleshooting; coordinate vendor support when needed.

Required profile

• Experience in setting up and managing research laboratories, preferably in chemistry or chemical engineering.
• Familiarity with procurement processes, budget monitoring and inventory control.
• Knowledge of chemical safety regulations, licensing requirements and EHS compliance.
• Ability to produce and maintain documentation such as SOPs, risk assessments and audit records.

Required skills

• Laboratory equipment procurement and commissioning
• Chemical inventory and asset management
• Regulatory compliance and licence administration
• Risk assessment and SOP development
• Instrument calibration, preventive maintenance and troubleshooting
• Budget tracking and expenditure reporting