Research Fellow in Food Process Engineering

Department:

- Proteins4Singapore
- Posted Date:

- 19 December 2024
- Closing Date:

- Open until filled
- Hours:

- Full Time
- Duration:

- Fixed term contract

**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.

**Job Summary**

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Fellow to join our dynamic research team focusing on designing, adapting, and implementing cutting-edge mechanical and electronic systems for a decentralized food manufacturing model. As part of the Proteins4Singapore project, this role involves on utilizing simulations and advanced control systems to optimize and ensure quality in novel food textures and forms. This position plays a critical role in advancing sustainable protein solutions for urban environments through interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing expertise from mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and food engineering. This is a 1-year contract with the possibility of extension after the first year.

**Key Responsibilities**
- Develop a closed-loop control system to synchronize high-moisture extrusion and shape manipulator systems with a seamless integration and quality assurance.
- Integrate a variety of non-invasive sensors for a continuous and active monitoring on a food shape manipulator system.
- Develop and adapt custom firmware to integrate extrusion, in-line monitoring and control system with software protocols.
- Work closely with interdisciplinary teams to combine multiscale structural analysis with food processing methods, such as 3D printing and extrusion, supporting the project’s overarching goals of promoting sustainable food technologies and creating novel approaches for analyzing food texture.
- 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**
- Proficient in firmware and software development, with experience in real-time systems, control algorithms, and open-source platforms.
- Strong background of at least 3 years in mechatronics, electronic systems, and automation; ideally experience with CFD, FEM simulations, and rheology for material flow analysis.
- Experience with food processing technologies, particularly food-grade and semi-solid materials, and a focus on safety and user-centric design.
- Publication as key author in related journals.
- 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 Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Food Processing, Industrial Engineering, or cognate discipline from a reputable university.
- Demonstrated ability in firmware programming and real-time process control integration.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to document processes and present findings effectively.

**What we offer**
- A collaborative and inclusive 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