Research Fellow in Soft Materials Science (Biophysical Characterisation of Food Textures)

About TUMCREATE

TUMCREATE is a multidisciplinary research platform of the Technical University Munich (TUM) at the Singapore Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE). We are joining forces with universities, public agencies, and industry for the advancement of future technologies.

Our large-scale Food Science program, ‘Proteins4Singapore,’ funded by Singapore’s National Research Foundation (NRF), is a collaborative effort between the Technical University Munich (TUM), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), and A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI). As part of the Proteins4Singapore team, you will work alongside renowned scientists in plant and food technology, food chemistry, materials science, and business sustainability. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, the program aims to develop state-of-the-art methods and techniques to ensure a sustainable protein supply for highly urbanized environments.

Please visit www.tum-create.edu.sg for more information about TUMCREATE.

Job Title 

Research Fellow in Soft Materials Science (Biophysical Characterisation of Food Textures)

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Fellow to join our dynamic research team focusing on the biophysical characterisation of food textures and their molecular building blocks. As part of the Proteins4Singapore project, the Research Fellow will contribute to innovative methodologies for nano- and micro- scale structural characterization of complex soft matter. This position plays a critical role in advancing sustainable protein solutions for urban environments through interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing expertise from physical chemistry, food science, and soft matter physics. This is a fixed term contract until March 2027.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental studies on protein hydration, emulsification, gelation, and phase separation in food systems.
• Perform experimental work related to nano- and micro- structuring, utilizing advanced biophysical characterization techniques such as X-ray, neutron, and light scattering, as well as other spectroscopic and imaging methods.
• Develop and apply new methods for studying nanoscale wetting, protein hydrophobicity, and viscoelastic properties of complex food textures using acoustic and scanning probe techniques.
• Elucidate on protein-protein interactions and self-assembly processes, aiming to control structure formation at micro- and nanoscales in food matrices.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate multiscale structural analysis with food processing techniques, including 3D printing and extrusion, thereby contributing to the project’s long-term goals of advancing sustainable food technologies and developing innovative methodologies for food texture analysis
• Engage in collaborative research, data analysis, and interpretation, while contributing to the writing of research papers, reports, and presentations for dissemination at conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate in lab meetings, seminars, and collaborative research discussions to align with project goals and objectives.
• Supervise junior group members including undergraduate and doctoral students.

Key Competencies

• Experience in studying soft matter and colloidal systems, including colloidal interactions and structure formation.
• Strong understanding of molecular self-assembly and phase behaviour in soft matter systems.
• Expertise in biophysical characterization techniques, such as X-ray, neutron, and light scattering, as well as atomic force, confocal laser scanning, or electron microscopy for structural resolution of soft matter systems
• Strong analytical skills, with experience in using statistical tools for experimental design and data optimisation.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in particular communication of complex scientific concepts to both specialists and non-specialists in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research and collaborate in multidisciplinary teams including working effectively within deadlines.
• Self-motivated and adaptable, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced research environment.

Qualification Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Food Science or cognate discipline from a reputable university.
• At least 1 year of experience in experimental soft matter research.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

What we offer

• A collaborative and inclusive world class research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Engagement with a leading research team committed to advancing an emerging topic of global relevance.

Applications

Please send your complete application, including cover letter, CV, university transcripts, and degree certificates, hr@tum-create.edu.sg.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

We are looking forward to your application!