About the opportunity
Join the Neuromorphic Mechanics group at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) as a PhD candidate to pioneer physical control at the microscale. This project explores how physical control functionality—such as memory, thresholds, coupling, and sensing—can be achieved at sub-millimeter dimensions, leveraging nonlinear mechanics and multiphysics interactions. The candidate will build a deep understanding of macroscale physical control, simulate mechanisms for the microscale, and design and fabricate devices using state-of-the-art microfabrication facilities. The role is part of the Beethoven program, which aims to strengthen STEM research and education.
Salary and benefits
- Gross base salary between €3,204 and €4,051 per month (Scale P).
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus.
- Participation in the ABP pension scheme (TU/e pays 70% of the premium).
- Allowance for commuting, working from home, and internet costs.
- Access to high-quality training programs for scientific researcher growth.
- Unlimited access to the on-campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an affordable rate.
- Free 24/7 mental health support via OpenUp for the employee and their family.
- On-campus children's day care.
- Staff Immigration Team and tax compensation (Expat Scheme) for international candidates.
- Paid pregnancy, maternity, and partially paid parental leave.
Who can apply?
- Excellent MSc degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, applied physics, microsystems, or another relevant engineering/scientific field.
- Curious, intrinsically motivated, organized, and resourceful.
- Motivated to combine experiments (hands-on), simulations, and theory.
- Microfabrication experience is highly preferred.
- Ability to supervise BSc and MSc students.
- Fluency in spoken and written English (C1 level).
Required documents
- Cover letter describing motivation and qualifications.
- Curriculum vitae (CV), including a list of publications and contact information for three references.
- Transcript of BSc and MSc course grades.
When to apply
- The vacancy is open until August 30, 2026.
- The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.
How to apply
- Submit a complete application online via the apply button.
- Ensure all requested documents are included to receive priority screening.
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…
- MSc graduates in engineering or physics with a strong interest in micro-scale device fabrication.
- Candidates who are resourceful and enjoy the challenge of combining simulation with hands-on experimental work.
- Individuals with prior microfabrication experience who want to apply those skills to autonomous soft systems.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is on-site in Eindhoven, which will require relocation if you are not local.
- The work involves state-of-the-art microfabrication, which can be demanding and requires high attention to detail and organizational skills.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This PhD is ideal for a candidate looking to push the boundaries of physical control at the microscale. By participating in the Beethoven program, you will gain access to advanced facilities and training, positioning yourself as a specialist in the design and fabrication of autonomous systems, which is a highly transferable skill set.
Our take
This is an excellent opportunity for detail-oriented researchers who enjoy the physical fabrication side of engineering; those who prefer macro-scale systems or purely computational research might find the micro-scale focus less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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