Research Fellow (Soft Robotics and Pneumatic Control)

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow to join our soft robotics and pneumatic control research programme. You will work closely with the Principal Investigator to advance the scientific understanding and practical applications of origami‑inspired soft actuators, pneumatic comparators, and electronics‑free fluidic logic systems.

Key responsibilities

• Design and develop origami‑inspired soft actuators and pneumatic control systems using CAD tools such as SolidWorks.
• Perform mathematical modelling and simulation analysis of pneumatic actuator components, including formula derivation and parameter optimisation.
• Conduct experiments to characterise kinematics, propulsion efficiency, trajectory control and overall performance of soft crawling robots.
• Develop and optimise control strategies for electronics‑free fluidic logic and pneumatic comparators.
• Analyse data, prepare scientific documentation, draft high‑quality academic manuscripts and address peer‑review comments.
• Supervise or co‑supervise undergraduate and graduate student researchers.
• Contribute to lab management, equipment maintenance and the development of new experimental capabilities.

Required profile

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Automation Control or a closely related field.
• Strong research background in soft robotics, pneumatic control engineering or fluidic logic systems.
• Hands‑on experience with origami‑inspired structure design, pneumatic comparator development and SolidWorks (preferred).
• Proven experience in rigorous mathematical modelling, quantitative data analysis and system simulation.
• Demonstrated publication record in relevant research domains.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.

Required skills

• SolidWorks (computer‑aided 3D design)
• Mathematical modelling
• Simulation and system analysis
• Data analysis
• Pneumatic control engineering
• Fluidic logic system design

What we offer

• Full‑time professional position
• Monthly salary range SGD 5,000 – 6,200
• Opportunity to work in a leading research environment at NUS
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities