Research Engineer / Research Assistant (HVAC AI-Driven Energy Optimization)

Job Title: Research Engineer / Research Assistant (HVAC AI-Driven Energy Optimization)

University-Level Unit: College of Design and Engineering

Faculty/Department-Level Unit: Electrical and Computer Engineering

Employee Category: Research Staff

Location_ONB: Kent Ridge Campus

Posting Start Date: 18/09/2026

Job Description

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is seeking a highly motivated Research Engineer (RE) or Research Assistant (RA) to join our team. This role focuses on the development, deployment, and validation of next-generation, AI-driven energy optimization solutions for industrial HVAC systems.

This is a full-time position with a contract duration of one (1) year, renewable subject to performance and funding availability.

Core Responsibilities

• Algorithm Deployment: Implement, test, and validate AI-driven HVAC optimization algorithms on industrial PC (IPC) platforms for real-time edge execution.
• Data Integration: Establish data acquisition pipelines from chillers, Air Handling Units (AHUs), Cooling Towers (CTs), and pumps using BMS/BACnet/Modbus protocols.
• Closed-Loop Control: Inject computed optimal parameters back into the active Building Management System (BMS) to achieve measurable energy reductions.
• Field Testing & Auditing: Conduct on-site commissioning, calibration, and rigorous performance validation against established baseline energy profiles.
• Hardware Evolution: Progressively design and integrate embedded hardware systems aimed at eventual full-scale replacement of legacy BMS units.
• Documentation & Support: Draft technical documentation, project reports, and high-impact academic publications while supporting peer researchers on field activities.
  
  

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit the following documents to [Confidential Information] with a CC copy to [HIDDEN TEXT]:

• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A brief cover letter detailing relevant technical and research experience.
• Contact information for two (2) professional or academic referees.
  
  

Please indicate your earliest available start date in the subject line. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Qualifications

• Min a Bachelor's degree (BEng/BSc) with a strong academic record and a proven technical background in HVAC systems.
• HVAC Systems: Solid working knowledge of chiller plants, AHUs, cooling towers, hydraulic pumps, and their sequential control logics.
• Industrial Communication: Familiarity with BMS architectures and industrial protocols (BACnet, Modbus, OPC-UA) or PLC/SCADA integration.
• Software & Hardware: Intermediate proficiency in Python, C++, or MATLAB. Hands-on experience with industrial PCs, edge gateways, or embedded controllers is highly advantageous.
• Industry Exposure (Desirable): Prior experience in building energy audits, retro-commissioning, or smart building management systems.
• Soft Skills: Professional proficiency in English with strong technical writing and verbal presentation capabilities.
  
  

Req ID: 34452