Research Fellow (Asymmetric Transition Metal Catalysis)

Job Description

This role involves conducting advanced research in asymmetric transition-metal catalysis, developing catalytic methods, carrying out laboratory experiments, analysing results, and preparing research papers or presentations. Candidates would typically need a PhD in chemistry or a closely related discipline, with strong experience in organic synthesis, transition-metal catalysis, air- and moisture-sensitive techniques, and modern analytical methods such as NMR, MS, and chromatography. The successful candidate is expected to work independently while collaborating with a research team, maintain accurate laboratory records, follow health and safety procedures, contribute to publications and funding-related outputs, and possibly guide junior researchers or students. Strong communication, scientific writing, problem-solving, and project-management skills are important.

Company Info

Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore) is a major research-intensive university located in Singapore. It is internationally recognised for science, engineering, technology, business, education, and interdisciplinary research, with strong links to industry and public-sector organisations. NTU operates a large, modern campus with specialist laboratories, research centres, teaching facilities, and extensive student services. Its research community includes academics, research fellows, postdoctoral scientists, engineers, and graduate students from around the world. The university supports work across areas such as sustainable chemistry, materials, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. Research Fellows at NTU generally join a principal investigator’s project, contributing to experiments, publications, collaboration, and knowledge development. The university offers an international working environment and access to Singapore’s broader scientific and innovation ecosystem.

Destination Guide

Singapore is a compact, highly connected island city with strong opportunities in research, higher education, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, engineering, finance, technology, and logistics. English is widely used at work, while Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil are also official languages. The culture is multicultural, orderly, and generally fast-paced, with excellent public transport, healthcare, safety, and internet access. Housing can be expensive, especially near central districts, so many newcomers rent rooms or apartments in areas linked by MRT. Food courts, hawker centres, parks, beaches, and shopping districts make everyday life convenient, although the climate is hot and humid year-round. Foreign professionals commonly need an Employment Pass, while qualifying researchers may use an appropriate work pass arranged by the university. Applicants should confirm eligibility, salary thresholds, insurance, taxes, and dependent arrangements before relocating. Singapore’s location also makes travel around Southeast Asia easy.