PhD in microfluidic contact lenses for controlled tear collection and analysis at Eindhoven University of Technology

About the opportunity

Are you excited about the future of wearable healthcare? Join us to merge microfluidics and contact lens technology, developing smart lenses that enable controlled tear fluid collection and analysis for non-invasive health monitoring. Tears contain a rich variety of biomarkers associated with ocular and systemic diseases, including glaucoma, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and cancer. However, current tear-collection methods can alter tear composition and prevent reliable measurements, limiting the clinical adoption of tear-based diagnostics. In this PhD project, you will develop innovative microfluidic contact lenses capable of collecting and analysing tear fluid in a controlled and non-invasive manner. By integrating microchannels, microvalves, and sensing functionalities into soft hydrogel lenses, you will help establish the technological foundation for a new generation of wearable diagnostic devices that enable continuous health monitoring.

Salary and benefits

• Full-time employment for four years with a gross base salary ranging from €3,204 to €4,051 per month (scale P), alongside an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
• Participation in the ABP pension scheme with the university paying 70% of the premium.
• Generous leave options providing 29 days of leave per year, expandable up to 41 days by working flexible hours.
• High-quality training programmes, technical infrastructure, and on-campus children's day care.
• Unlimited access to the on-campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an affordable rate and free 24/7 mental health support via OpenUp.
• Allowances for commuting, working from home, and internet costs, as well as support from a Staff Immigration Team and an Expat Scheme.

Who can apply?

• A MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Microtechnology, Materials Science, Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: microfluidics, microfabrication, bioMEMS, (bio)sensors, or biomaterials.
• A strong affinity for both hands-on experimental research and the development of fundamental scientific understanding.
• The ability to independently plan, execute, and manage research projects while meeting deadlines.
• A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for working in an international and multidisciplinary research environment with excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).

Required documents

• Cover letter detailing motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of publications and contact information for three references.

When to apply

• Published on 07 September 2026.
• Application deadline is 07 October 2026.

How to apply

• Submit a complete online application through the official apply button.
• Ensure all required documents including the cover letter and CV are attached; applications sent via email or post will not be processed.

Additional information

• A pre-employment screening, such as a knowledge security check, may be part of the selection procedure.
• Due to the current closure of the Dutch embassy in Tehran, applications from candidates residing in Iran cannot be considered at this time.