Research Assistant

Job Posting Details

We are seeking a Research Assistant (RA) in Thermal Energy Storage System Development to support the development, optimization, and deployment of the Radiation-Assisted Tunable PCM Dynamic Wall (rTPDW), an advanced thermal energy storage (TES) solution for energy-efficient buildings. This role focuses on optimizing the systems components, fabricating prototypes, testing performance, and overseeing its real-world installation on campus.

Job Responsibilities:

Component Optimization: The RA will refine the key components of the rTPDW system, including the tunable phase change material (TPCM), dynamic thermal insulation (DTI), and radiative cooling/heating (RC/RH) layers. This involves optimizing TPCM for reversible transition temperature (Tₘ) modulation (15-36°C) using electrodialysis, achieving a thermal conductance switching ratio 10 for DTI, and improving RC/RH coatings to achieve solar reflectance 0.95 and emissivity

• 0.85.
Prototype Fabrication: The RA will fabricate full-scale rTPDW prototypes by integrating optimized TPCM, DTI, and RC/RH components. They will perform validation experiments, including U-value and thermal performance measurements, to ensure compliance with building energy standards such as RTTV ( 14 W/m²) and OTTV (
• 35 W/m²).
• Performance Testing: The RA will conduct controlled experiments to evaluate the systems energy savings, thermal regulation, and durability. Comparative testing against static walls and other TES systems will be performed, and simulation tools (e.g., EnergyPlus) will be used to refine the system design based on experimental results.
• Real-World Deployment: The RA will assist in the installation of the rTPDW system at the North Gate security shed for high visibility. They will monitor the systems performance over 30+ diurnal cycles to assess energy savings, thermal efficiency, and long-term reliability.
• Collaboration and Reporting: The RA will work closely with the project team and industry partners to ensure scalability and cost-effectiveness. They will prepare detailed progress reports, contribute to presentations, and assist in planning future implementation efforts.

Qualifications and Skills:

• A masters or bachelors degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with materials synthesis and thermal characterization techniques such as DSC, TGA, and FTIR.
• Strong skills in prototype fabrication, performance testing, and data analysis.
• Familiarity with thermal energy storage systems and building energy standards is highly preferred.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills to support effective collaboration and reporting.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge TES technology with practical applications, contributing to sustainable building design and energy efficiency. Apply now to join our team and drive impactful innovation. (Duration: 1 year)

Starting salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Fringe benefits including annual leave, medical and dental benefits will be provided.

Application Procedure

In support of a green work environment, we accept applications submitted online only. To apply, please complete an online application form through the HKUST Careers website (https://hkustcareers.ust.hk) and return it online to the Human Resources Office on or before Wednesday, 11 June 2025.Applicants are requested to upload a detailed curriculum vitae emphasizing their working/project experiences. Applicants will receive an acknowledgement by email upon successful submission. We thank applicants for their interest, but advise that only shortlisted candidates will be notified of the result of the application.

(Information provided by applicants will be used for recruitment and other employment-related purposes.Applicants should read the Personal Information Collection Statement before submission of application.)

HKUST is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to our core values of

inclusiveness, diversity, and respect.

Information :

• Company : Sci-Union Technology
• Position : Research Assistant
• Location : Hong Kong
• Country : HK