Scientist , Advanced Manufacturing & Semiconductor, IHPC

Job SummaryThe AMS Division, IHPC, A*STAR, is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to join a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team. This position is part of a joint laboratory initiative with an Oil&Gas company, focusing on the degradation behavior and reliability of polymeric seals in mechanically energized sealing systems used in oil and gas applications. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing computational models, analyzing failure mechanisms, and enhancing the long-term reliability of polymeric sealing systems. This research is of strong industrial relevance and involves close collaboration with engineers and experimentalists from industry. The key scope of work includes: • Develop finite element (FE) models of mechanically energized sealing systems to evaluate performance and reliability under thermal, mechanical, and environmental loads. • Automate FE-based parametric studies and perform sensitivity analyses to identify critical material and geometric factors affecting seal performance. • Investigate failure modes such as viscoelastic relaxation, thermal aging, and thermal cycling; develop and validate degradation models for these mechanisms. • Integrate degradation models with traditional metrics (e.g., compressive stress relaxation, mechanical property evolution) for performance prediction. •  Work with experimental teams and partners to refine test procedures, define reliability criteria, and assess lifecycle failure risks. Job Requirements • PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Physics, or a related field. • Solid background in continuum mechanics, polymer material behavior (especially aging and viscoelasticity), and finite element modelling (FEM). • Sufficient experiences in FE software (e.g., Abaqus) and Python scripting for automation and parametric studies; experience with statistical FE analysis is a plus. • Knowledge of polymer degradation mechanisms, aging tests, or reliability engineering methodologies is highly advantageous. • Proficiency in scientific programming languages (Python, Fortran, MATLAB, or similar). • Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and industrial partners. • Proven ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and produce high-quality technical reports and publications.