Scientist , Advanced Manufacturing & Semiconductor, IHPC

About This Role

A*STAR seeks a PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science to lead computational modeling of polymeric seals under mechanical and thermal loads, focusing on degradation analysis using Abaqus and Python.

Responsibilities

• Develop finite element (FE) models of mechanically energized sealing systems to evaluate performance and reliability.
• Automate FE-based parametric studies and perform sensitivity analyses to identify critical material factors affecting seal performance.
• Investigate failure modes such as viscoelastic relaxation, thermal aging, and thermal cycling to develop degradation models.
• Integrate degradation models with traditional metrics (e.g., compressive stress relaxation) for performance prediction.
• Work with experimental teams to refine test procedures, define reliability criteria, and assess lifecycle failure risks.
• Collaborate with industry engineers to enhance the long-term reliability of polymeric sealing systems.

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 experience in FE software (e.g., Abaqus) and Python scripting for automation and parametric studies.
• Knowledge of polymer degradation mechanisms, aging tests, or reliability engineering methodologies is highly advantageous.
• Proficiency in scientific programming languages (Python, Fortran, MATLAB).
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and produce high-quality technical reports.