Research Associate – Sustainable Growing Media

About the role

The School of Materials Science and Engineering at NTU seeks a Research Associate to support a Singapore Food Agency‑funded project developing sustainable growing media for urban farming. The role combines laboratory scale‑up, field testing, and project coordination within a multidisciplinary team.

Key responsibilities

• Scale up production of growing media and support experimental work.
• Conduct field tests and maintain an off‑site research facility.
• Plan and manage project schedule, budget, forecasts and monitor expenditures.
• Identify, control and mitigate project risks.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders, including collaborators and the funding agency.
• Prepare periodic finance and technical reports for stakeholders.
• Oversee claims, procurement, asset management and laboratory inventory.
• Ensure health and safety compliance throughout the research activities.
• Support organisation of research events such as symposiums, seminars and webinars.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Materials Science, Agronomy, Plant Science or related field, or Bachelor’s with ≥4 years relevant experience, or Diploma with ≥6 years experience.
• Interest in urban farming and sustainable agriculture.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for a diverse, international research environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines and work independently.

Required skills

• Proficiency with project management software platforms.