About the opportunity
The EngD on AI-robotic integration for arm assistance in home settings is a post-master’s program at the University of Twente, part of the SAISaAR-bot Vanguard Vinnovate project. The project focuses on developing an AI-enhanced Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for the iFLOAT robotic arm to support people with limited arm and shoulder function in home settings, advancing the technology from TRL 6 to TRL 7. The candidate will work within an international consortium including academic, clinical, and industrial partners from the Netherlands and Italy.
Salary and benefits
- Gross monthly salary of €3,029.
- Annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary.
- Annual year-end bonus of 8.3%.
- Full status as an employee at the University of Twente, including pension and health care benefits.
- Tailor-made post-master design program (50% educational component, 50% design project).
- Minimum of 29 holidays per year for full-time employment.
- Visits to national and international conferences.
- Mentorship for professional and personal growth.
- Free access to sports and leisure facilities on campus.
- Certified degree (EngD) and registration as a Technological Designer in the Dutch register (KIVI) upon successful completion.
Who can apply?
- Master's degree (or soon to acquire one) in Biomedical Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
- Knowledge and skills in Artificial Intelligence, User-Centred Design, Programming, and Rehabilitation Robotics.
- Experience or interest in Healthcare Innovation and Assistive Technologies.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary international research environment.
- Entrepreneurial mindset and enthusiasm for developing practical solutions.
- Good team spirit and ability to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment.
- Fluency in spoken and written English.
- For applicants with non-Dutch qualifications who did not have secondary and tertiary education in English: IELTS (total band score ≥ 6.5), TOEFL-iBT (score ≥ 90), or Cambridge CAE-C (CPE).
Required documents
- Cover letter (maximum 2 pages of A4) emphasizing interest, qualifications, and motivations.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a list of all courses attended, grades obtained, and (if applicable) publications and references.
- English proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL-iBT, or Cambridge CAE-C/CPE) if applicable.
When to apply
- Apply before September 21, 2026.
- First online job interviews are scheduled for September 29, October 1, and October 2, 2026.
How to apply
- Apply online via the 'Apply now' button.
- The selection committee reviews applications; responses are sent within 2 weeks after the vacancy closes.
- First interview (online or in person) serves as an introduction and may include a short presentation.
- Second interview to discuss job content, skills, and talents.
- Final offer and screening process.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Master's degree holders in Biomedical, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or Robotics.
- Individuals with a strong interest in AI, user-centered design, and healthcare innovation.
- Candidates who thrive in multidisciplinary, international environments and possess an entrepreneurial mindset.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is a two-year post-master's design program, which is distinct from a traditional research-only PhD.
- The role is on-site at the University of Twente, requiring relocation to the Netherlands if not already based there.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This EngD position is perfect for an engineer looking to bridge the gap between academic research and practical, real-world application. It offers a unique opportunity to develop professional skills in a collaborative industrial and clinical setting, leading to a recognized qualification as a Technological Designer.
Our take
This is an excellent opportunity for engineers who are passionate about assistive technology and want to gain hands-on experience in product development. It is less suitable for those seeking a purely theoretical or long-term academic research career.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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