Research Assistant – Additive Manufacturing

About the role

The Singapore Centre for 3D Printing (SC3DP) at NTU is seeking a motivated Research Assistant to support its cutting‑edge additive manufacturing projects. You will work hands‑on with metal AM systems, prepare and analyse specimens, and contribute to sustainable manufacturing research.

Key responsibilities

• Operate Laser Powder‑Bed Fusion (LPBF) equipment and perform sample fabrication.
• Prepare metallurgical specimens – sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching.
• Conduct microstructural characterisation using optical microscopy, SEM and EBSD.
• Assist with materials analysis, interpret microstructural features and document results.
• Support mechanical and metallurgical testing for metal AM research projects.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and ensure safe operation of characterisation facilities.
• Help plan experiments, track samples, collect data and prepare technical reports, presentations and publications.
• Collaborate with researchers, students and industrial partners on advanced manufacturing initiatives.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical, Metallurgical, Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
• Experience with metallurgical sample preparation and microscopy techniques.
• Knowledge of metal additive manufacturing processes such as LPBF and Directed Energy Deposition (DED) is preferred.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Required skills

• Laser Powder‑Bed Fusion (LPBF) operation
• Directed Energy Deposition (DED) familiarity
• Metallurgical sample preparation
• Optical microscopy
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
• Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD)
• Materials characterisation and analysis
• Mechanical testing support
• Laboratory equipment calibration
• Technical report and data documentation