Research Fellow in Carbon Dioxide Utilization Technologies

Project Overview

This position supports a National Research Foundation (NRF)-funded initiative aligned with Singapore's goals for sustainability and carbon reduction. Given Singapore's resource constraints, the project explores innovative technologies to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable chemicals via renewable energy sources. The research integrates biotechnological and electrocatalytic approaches to develop an efficient pathway for producing chemicals sustainably. The project is led by Dr. Zhou Kang at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), leveraging expertise in metabolic engineering, microbial biomanufacturing, and sustainable process innovation.

Role Summary

One Research Fellow will be appointed to advance the microbial engineering and bioprocess development components. The fellow will primarily focus on engineering microbial strains to produce platform aromatic compounds from C2 building blocks through pathway manipulation and fermentation methods. This role supports progressing the project toward a lab-scale integrated CO2-to-chemical conversion demonstration.

Key Duties

• Perform independent laboratory research on microbial fermentations, strain engineering, and biotransformation techniques.
• Develop and fine-tune microbial strains, synthetic metabolic pathways, and cultivation protocols to boost productivity and efficiency.
• Design and assist in integrating biotechnological processes into continuous lab-scale setups.
• Utilize advanced analytical tools to characterize chemical and biological products from experiments.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary project members and external partners specializing in metabolic engineering and biocatalysis.
• Prepare detailed research documentation, technical reports, contribute to scientific articles, and support mentorship of junior researchers or students as needed.

Qualifications and Skills

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Synthetic Biology, or related disciplines.
• Proven research background in microbial fermentation, metabolic engineering, biotransformations, or bioprocess development.
• Practical experience in genetic engineering, molecular biology, and strain construction techniques is strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with capability for independent work and effective team collaboration.
• Exceptional communication qualities suited for multidisciplinary research environments.
• A track record of publications or demonstrable research achievements is an advantage.
• Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, and C++ for automating data analysis and process control is beneficial, as is knowledge of emerging agentic AI technologies.

Professional and Career Development

• Initial fixed-term contract for one year with potential extension up to three years based on review.
• Opportunities to lead scientific publications, present findings at conferences, and establish an independent research profile.
• Exposure to interdisciplinary collaboration in sustainable chemical manufacturing and CO2 valorization research.
• Prospects for involvement in start-up formation focused on specialty chemical production in Singapore, led by project members.

Why Work With Us?

• Engage in a cutting-edge, NRF-supported project addressing impactful CO2 utilization challenges.
• Contribute actively to Singapore’s sustainable development and carbon footprint reduction efforts.
• Join a dynamic team guided by Dr. Zhou Kang, renowned for metabolic engineering and biomanufacturing innovation.
• Gain valuable expertise in an emerging scientific discipline with broad application in green chemical production.
• Access opportunities to disseminate research internationally through publications and conferences.