Research Engineer / Fellow (Electric Vessel) - SN4

As a University of Applied Learning, Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) works closely with industry partners to deliver impactful, application-driven research. This position supports a strategic research project on full electric harbour craft microgrid modelling, onboard energy management systems (EMS), and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) validation.

The Research Staff will contribute to the design, modelling, simulation, validation, and optimization of electric vessel power systems, with strong emphasis on battery-based propulsion, onboard microgrids, EMS algorithms, and real-time validation platforms.

Project & Research Responsibilities:

• Participate in and support the execution of the research project with the Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI, and research team, covering electric vessel modelling, onboard microgrids, and energy management systems.
• Contribute to the delivery of project milestones across modelling, EMS development, HIL validation, and system optimization.
• Support documentation, reporting, and dissemination of research outcomes to stakeholders and industry partners.

Technical Responsibilities:

1. Develop and simulate electrical and propulsion system models for full electric harbour craft using MATLAB/Simulink.
2. Model key onboard components including battery energy storage, power converters, propulsion motors, and ship service loads.
3. Simulate propulsion and propeller load behaviour under varying operating and marine environmental conditions.
4. Integrate and evaluate auxiliary energy sources such as solar power within the onboard microgrid.
5. Perform energy consumption, battery sizing, efficiency, and carbon performance studies for electric vessels.
6. Design and implement an onboard Energy Management System (EMS) for coordinated control of onboard power systems.
7. Develop EMS strategies for power sharing, battery management, and voltage regulation.
8. Deploy models on real-time HIL platforms (e.g., Typhoon HIL, OPAL-RT) for system validation.
9. Conduct unit, sub-system, and system-level testing under normal and fault conditions.
10. Analyse simulation and HIL results to optimize EMS performance, including support for autonomous vessel operation.
11. To liaise and communicate with any relevant internal or external stakeholder to ensure project deliverables are met.
12. Any other ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor.

Experience & Technical Skills:

• Minimum 3 years of relevant research or industry experience in one or more of the following:

• High-fidelity electrical system modelling using MATLAB/Simulink

• Electric vehicle, marine, or microgrid power system simulation

• Energy management system (EMS) or supervisory control algorithm development

• Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) platforms (e.g., OPAL-RT, Typhoon HIL)

• Experience in battery energy storage systems, power converters, and propulsion drives.

• Knowledge of control systems, optimization techniques, and stability analysis is highly preferred.

• Familiarity with marine electrical systems or isolated microgrids is an advantage.

Personal Attributes:

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary research teams.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Experience and commitment to student supervision, mentoring, and training.
• Excellent technical writing, presentation, and communication skills.

Key Competencies:

• Strong analytical, modelling, and critical thinking skills
• Ability to translate research outcomes into practical, industry-relevant solutions
• Proactive, self-directed learner with a commitment to continuous professional development
• Strong sense of ownership, initiative, and accountability
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships within the university and with industry partners