Research Associate (Plant Science and Biochemistry)

The School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CCEB) at NTU Singapore, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), is part of Singapore Indoor Farming System (SingFarm)—a CREATE-NRF programme focused on building a sustainable, data-driven food production model with strong industry relevance to contribute Singapore’s ambition in achieving 20 per cent local production of its fiber (vegetables, mushrooms etc.) by 2035. The candidate would be working in a multinational team at the forefront of Singapore’s agricultural innovation and food security.

The position of Research Associate will focus on the analytical characterization of leafy vegetables (e.g., Choy Sum and Kai Lan) grown in controlled environments. The role integrates advanced real-time monitoring technologies (NIR, hyperspectral imaging, volatile monitoring) with laboratory chemical analysis (GC-MS, HPLC/LC-MS) to quantify plant quality traits such as flavour, nutrition, and resilience. The candidate will collaborate with modelling and crop physiology experts to build integrated data pipelines linking sensor data with metabolite profiles, supporting intelligent and high-value crop production.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Operate real-time sensing systems (e.g., NIR, hyperspectral imaging) to monitor crop quality 

• Perform targeted lab analyses using GC-MS and HPLC/LC-MS to validate chemical traits 

• Design experiments linking sensor outputs to validated quality indicators 

• Collaborate with crop and modelling specialists to translate findings into actionable insights

Job Requirements: 

• A master’s degree in plant science, biosystem engineering, or closely related fields 

• Excellent oral and written in communication

• Experience in metabolite extraction and analysis, as well as plant growing and phenotyping.   

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment while also demonstrating strong independent work ethics and initiative. 

We seek a diverse and inclusive workforce and is committed to equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from all and recruit on the basis of merit, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, marital status and family responsibilities, or disability.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.