The Center of Excellence for NaNo Energy and Catalysis Technology (CONNECT) is seeking a dedicated (Senior) Technical Officer cum Executive to join our dynamic research team. The Technical Officer will play a key role in managing, coordinating, and supporting research projects related to nanotechnology, energy materials, and catalysis. The successful candidate will play crucial roles in providing technical support (i.e., services, training and maintenance) for advanced analytical instruments at CONNECT, serving researchers, academic staff, and external clients (other than Xiamen University Malaysia), managing and coordinating research grants, and ensuring efficient lab operations at CONNECT. This is an excellent opportunity for a professional to contribute to innovative research while playing a key part in the operational and strategic growth of the CONNECT center.

Role and Key Responsibilities

1. Technical oversight: Provide technical and operational support for CONNECT researchers, academic staff, research students, and external parties

• Maintain, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure the optimal operation of scientific instruments and laboratory equipment at CONNECT (e.g., XRD, FTIR, Raman, LCMS, GC, etc.).
• Provide highly specialized technical services and scientific support on CONNECT equipment to team members.
• Running internal and external samples from Xiamen University Malaysia or other institutions, subject to applicable service charges.
• Stay informed of new developments in nanotechnology, catalysis, and energy materials to support research innovation.

2. Manage the day-to-day operations of the assigned CONNECT labs and their facilities for compliance and safety

• Equipment maintenance: Regular inspection, calibration, and maintenance of CONNECT lab equipment (XRD, FTIR, Raman, LCMS, GC, etc.).
• Coordinating with external service providers for minor/major repairs and servicing.
• Radiation management for X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis in compliance with the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) regulations.
• Inventory management: Maintaining an inventory of lab supplies and equipment.
• Sourcing of quotations, delivery and payment terms, purchase requisitions and order of suitable materials and equipment.
• Safety management: Ensuring all equipment meets safety standards and protocols to minimize risk in CONNECT labs. Ensure that CONNECT labs and research practices adhere to health, safety, and regulatory standards and implement necessary changes.
• Keeping detailed records of equipment operation, maintenance and usage.
• Plan and advise on the upgrading of equipment, CONNECT lab facilities and CONNECT lab area.
• Preparation for the ISO standard for the CONNECT labs.
• Event planning and organization related to CONNECT research activities (e.g. seminars, workshops, MOU signing, etc.
• Maintain high standards of data integrity and scientific ethics in all research activities.

3. Grant management related to the CONNECT labs.

• Manage research grants, including budgeting, tracking expenditures, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
• Project coordination: Monitor progress reports and ensure timely submission of deliverables to funding agencies.
• Identify new grant opportunities and collaborate on the preparation and submission of research proposals in collaboration with the Director of CONNECT.

4. Documentation, publicity, and reporting related to the CONNECT labs.

• Developing and constantly updating the CONNECT website to showcase the latest research information and enhancing our social media presence (e.g., LinkedIn, Facebook, WeChat, etc.) to reach a broader audience in Malaysia and internationally.
• Prepare scientific reports, project updates, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders in collaboration with the Director of CONNECT.
• Prepare the financial funding reports and other documentation related to CONNECT.
• Willing to take on any other manageable tasks as assigned by the Director of CONNECT.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Education: A minimum of a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Nanotechnology, or a related field. A Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field is considered.
• Experience: Minimum 1-3 years of experience in a similar role, preferably in a research, scientific or academic environment.
• Proficiency and fast learner in advanced analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and/or radiation.
• Certification as a Radiation Protection Officer (RPO) is an added advantage.
• Experience working in nanotechnology, energy, or catalysis research is an added advantage.
• Resourceful, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to troubleshoot complex instrumentation with vast experience in research equipment.
• Ability to work both independently and proven ability to manage multiple projects in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, including the ability to set priorities, manage time, and plan work to meet deadlines.
• Demonstrates strong attention to detail and accuracy, and adheres to protocols, standards, and ethical research principles, while also possessing well-developed communication skills for drafting various documentation.
• Self-driven and able to work under pressure and in a team environment.
• May be required to work on weekends during XMUM Open Days/Application Days or other activities organized by the CONNECT and XMUM.
• Knowledge of the latest software and computing tools used in science laboratory work.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, Bahasa Malaysia, and/or Chinese.
• May be required to undertake further training as required such as First Aid, specialized equipment, etc.

Interested candidates are encouraged to email their CV, along with copies of academic transcripts and supporting documents, to recruit_admin@xmu.edu.my and weejun.ong@xmu.edu.my

We thank all applicants for their expressed interest. However, ONLY shortlisted applicants will be notified.