Research Engineer (Microneedle Fabrication and Biopolymer Materials)

Project Overview

The DiSTAP programme addresses important challenges in food production in Singapore and globally by developing novel analytical, biosensing, materials, and plant technologies. DiSTAP is one of the five Interdisciplinary Research Groups of the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART).

The Research Engineer will join an interdisciplinary team of chemists, materials scientists, engineers, and plant biologists to develop biopolymer-based microneedle technologies for plant sensing, delivery, and post-harvest applications. The work will focus on formulation development, microneedle fabrication, and material optimization using various biomaterials to improve plant health monitoring and extend the shelf-life of perishable crops.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and evaluate microneedle formulations using silk fibroin, hydrogels, polysaccharides, biodegradable polymers, and other biomaterials.

• Optimize biochemical compositions and active ingredient formulations for improving post-harvest quality of perishables such as leafy vegetables, fruits, and cut flowers.

• Perform microneedle fabrication, formulation testing, material characterization, and stability studies.

• Support in-planta and post-harvest experiments to evaluate delivery efficiency, plant compatibility, and shelf-life extension.

• Work with interdisciplinary team members and external collaborators, including greenhouse and commercial plantation partners.

• Maintain accurate experimental records and contribute to technical reports, posters, presentations, and research documentation.

• Assist in mentoring visiting students, interns, and junior team members when required. 

Requirements

• BSc or MSc in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Biomaterials, Pharmaceutical Science, or a closely related field.

• Hands-on experience in polymer formulation, biopolymer processing, hydrogel systems, microneedle fabrication, or functional materials development.

• Experience with biomaterials such as silk fibroin, polysaccharides, biodegradable polymers, hydrogels, or composite materials is preferred.

• Knowledge of material characterization techniques such as microscopy, mechanical testing, spectroscopy, rheology, thermal analysis, or stability testing.

• Prior experience in post-harvest technologies, controlled release systems, plant applications, nanosensors, or agricultural technologies will be an advantage.

• Strong hands-on laboratory skills and good problem-solving ability.

• Ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary research environment.

• Good communication skills, with the ability to prepare technical reports, posters, and presentations.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. 

To apply, please visit our website at: https://portal.smart.mit.edu/careers/career-opportunities

Interested applicants are invited to send in their full CV/resume, cover letter and list of three references (to include reference names and contact information). We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.