Research Assistant

The School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (MAE) is a robust, dynamic and multi-disciplinary international research community comprising of world-class scientists and bright students. MAE prides itself in its excellent research capabilities in areas including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, biomedical, energy, industrial engineering, maritime engineering, robotics, etc. The school is equipped with state-of-the-art research infrastructure, housing a comprehensive range of cluster laboratories, test bedding facilities, research centres/institutes and corporate laboratories. Cutting-edge research in MAE addresses the immediate needs of our industries and supports the nation's long-term development strategies. In the new era of industrial 4.0 and sustainable living, MAE is rigorous in developing new competencies to support the growth and competitiveness of our engineering sector in the global landscape. MAE has grown to be leader in Engineering Research, ranking amongst the top engineering schools in the world.

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The School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) is seeking to hire a Research Assistant to support the research on design and manufacturing of acoustic soft robotics. This role will propose novel design of acoustic metamaterial and structures that deliver sound-driven motion and movement. 3D and 4D printing will be employed for manufacturing of the design results. Acoustic experiments will be carried out to validate performance and behaviour of the novel robotic designs. We are seeking the acoustic soft robotics that works in the small scale and delivers large motion and deformation as the final goal.

Key Responsibilities:

The Research Assistant will work on a cross-disciplinary project at the intersection of mechanics, acoustics, design optimization, and advanced manufacturing. The key responsibilities of this position include:

• Perform numerical simulation to solve structure-acoustic problems

• Perform design optimization, especially AI-based generative design

• Master domain expertise of small-scale robotics design and manufacturing

• Incorporate manufacturability concerns for 3D and 4D printing

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholder on soft robotics  

• Maintenance of lab or equipment or supplies that include procurement and liaison with suppliers

• Assist or produce high quality reports and documents that consolidate research findings

Job Requirements:

Required educational qualification, experience, skills and competencies for this position:

• Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, or related fields

• Expertise in numerical simulation of multi-physics systems, especially acoustic problems

• Expertise in generative design of compliant robotic structures 

• Proficiency in basics of programming languages such as C++, Python, and/or Matlab

• Strong understanding of research methodologies, data analysis, and statistical techniques

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey information, collaborate and build relationship

• Ability to produce technical content for publications and deliver informative presentations to diverse audience including students

• Attention to details and a commitment to upholding ethical standards in all research activities

• Passion in the field of research and a desire to contribute to meaningful projects

• Proficiency in oral and written communication

• Strong publication track record is an advantage for this position.

We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.