Research Fellow (Nanocatalysis)

The School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CCEB) at Nanyang Technological University invites applications for the position of Research Fellow. The successful candidate will join a research group led by Dr Zhang Zhengyang that combines single-molecule localization microscopy, electrochemistry, electron microscopy and nanomaterial synthesis to investigate catalytic reactions on individual nanomaterials. The group's research focuses on understanding how active sites, defects and strain govern photocatalytic and electrocatalytic processes at the nanoscale, with the aim of designing efficient catalysts for sustainable energy and chemical conversion. The successful candidate will lead a project on single-molecule localization imaging of photocatalytic and electrocatalytic reactions on two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials with engineered defects and will have opportunities to contribute to high-impact publications, international collaborations and student mentorship.

The Research Fellow will lead the project from the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, through super-resolution imaging and electrochemical measurements, to the analysis, publication and presentation of research findings. The role also includes training and co-supervising students, supporting laboratory operations and contributing to collaborative research activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and execution of research on the photocatalytic and electrocatalytic properties of 2D nanomaterials.
• Synthesize and characterize transition metal dichalcogenides and other nanomaterials with controlled defects.
• Perform single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) and correlated optical/electron microscopy to study nanoscale photoreduction and oxidation reactions.
• Conduct electrochemical and photoelectrochemical measurements to correlate nanoscale activity with catalytic performance.
• Develop programs (e.g. Python, MATLAB) for image processing, single-molecule localization and kinetic data analysis.
• Prepare reports, scientific publications and conference presentations.
• Train and co-supervise graduate and undergraduate students.
• Coordinate project-related procurement of chemicals and consumables, research collaborations and presentations of research progress.
• Support laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance and compliance with laboratory safety requirements.

Job Requirements:

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics or a related field.
• Research experience in one or more of the following areas: photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, nanomaterials, or single-molecule/super-resolution fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience in the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, preferably 2D materials, using techniques such as XRD, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, TEM and AFM.
• Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with experience.
• Proficiency in programming (e.g. Python, MATLAB, C/C++) for image and data analysis, and familiarity with scientific software such as Origin and ImageJ/Fiji.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including experience in reaction kinetics and dynamics analysis.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment, with strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Entry-level candidates are welcome to apply.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.