Research interests:

Our group is interested in applying fundamental science to the understanding of material’s behavior aiming at developing new materials / innovative solutions for practical applications. In our research, experimental investigation has been complemented by computer simulation at different length scales. We have two general areas of research conveyed in 4 focused topics (listed below).

Surface Engineering of Materials: Thin films & engineered nanostructures for clean energy and environmental applications; Microelectronic thin films; Protective and functional surface coatings.

Mechanical & Long-term Behaviors of Materials: Deformation, fracture, fatigue, and creep of bulk monolithic & composite materials, thin films and multi-layers; Experimental and computational mechanics of materials; Materials degradation and failure analysis.

Research scholarship & research fellowship:

Priority for research scholarship is given to outstanding graduates with background and experience in Materials Science & Engineering, Solid-State Physics, Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and other related disciplines leading to a Ph.D. degree. The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of S$2700-3500 (will be increased by S$500 after qualifying exam) and covers the University tuition fees. The estimated cost of living (including accommodation, food, transport, and other miscellaneous expenses) for a foreign student in Singapore is ~S$2000 per month. Successful candidates will be expected to conduct research in the one of the above research areas. Meanwhile, any proposals from potential applicants are welcome. Please take note of the admission requirements for MSE at NTU.

Opportunities for Postgraduate Scholarship:

• NTU Research Scholarship (NTU-RS) leading to PhD degree. Both local and foreign candidates who are interested in working in any of research areas at NTU are welcome to apply.
• Industrial Postgraduate Program (IPP) is a sheme sponsored by the Ecomonic Development Board of Singapore goveronment. It is open to Singaporeans and Singapore permanent residents leading to PhD degree.
• Nanyang President’s Graduate Scholarship (NPGS) is a highly competitive scheme open to all nationalities leading to PhD degree at NTU.
• Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is open to international students leading to PhD degree. Please refer to the web site for more details.
• A*STAR graduate scholarship (AGS) opens to Singaporeans, Singaporean permanent residents and ASEAN nationals to undertake research at his/her chosen A*STAR research institute and register candidature at a local University.

You are welcome to write to me (email: ASZChen@ntu.edu.sg) if you are interested in research fellowship or graduate research scholarship in the above areas.

Research positions (research student, research assistant, postdoctoral fellowship, etc.):

Positoins for full-time researcher and PhD scholarship will be updated at this site when available. In general, a PhD applicant is expcted to posses excellent academic record, good TOEFL (or IELTS) and GRE scores.

============== job opening ==============

A research position for Research Associate or Research Fellow is available at NTU. The applicant is expected to hold a MEng degree (for Research Associate) or PhD degree (for Research Fellow) in the area of carbon fibre composites. Experience in surface modification of carbon materials will be an advantage. Interested applicant please send your CV to Prof. Chen at ASZChen@ntu.edu.sg.

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Research group members (current & alumni) and visitors:

Research staff

PhD students

MEng students

Visiting professors / scientists

Visiting research students