Project Officer - Keratin Bioplastics Research

About the role

The School of Materials Science and Engineering at NTU is looking for a Project Officer to join an MOE-funded project led by Prof Ng Kee Woei. The project aims to upcycle keratinous waste for bioplastics development. The Project Officer will develop and optimise the formulation of keratin-based bioplastics, characterise them and assess their biodegradation profile in soil.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct a thorough literature review and generate periodic updates
• Extract the keratin protein
• Formulate and optimise keratin-based bioplastics
• Characterise the bioplastics (mechanical strength, FTIR, SEM, degradability, permeability, water contact, etc.)
• Analyse and interpret research data
• Develop and optimise protocols
• Manage logistical issues and laboratory inventory
• Work within a multidisciplinary team and with external collaborators
• Assist in preparing periodic progress reports required by the funding agency

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, Biology or a related field
• Experience in polymers, biomaterials research and material characterisation
• Experience in environmental science and engineering is a bonus
• Able to plan and run experiments with minimal supervision, take initiative, organise work and meet deadlines

Required skills

• Material characterisation techniques such as mechanical testing, FTIR, SEM and degradability assessment
• Good communication and writing skills
• Good coordination and project management skills