PhD Position in Micro-Robotics at University of Twente

About the opportunity

This PhD project focuses on the development of surgical micro-robotic devices, with emphasis on micro- and nano-fabrication and optical technologies for sensing, actuation, and control. Research includes the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of micro-scale robotic platforms, integration of optical and imaging-based feedback, and development of modeling and control strategies for operation in complex biological environments. Particular attention will be given to scalable fabrication and integration of photonic sensing or actuation. The position is situated within the Surgical Robotics Laboratory and the Department of Biomechanical Engineering (Faculty of Engineering Technology) at the University of Twente, working in close collaboration with the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology as well as clinical and international partners.

Salary and benefits

• Full-time 4-year PhD employment contract (38 hours per week)
• Gross monthly salary starting at €3,204 in the first year and rising to €4,051 in the fourth year
• 8% holiday allowance of gross annual salary
• 8.3% year-end bonus
• Solid pension scheme
• Minimum of 29 holidays per year for full-time employment
• Professional and personal development program within Graduate School Twente
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and a lively campus environment

Who can apply?

• Master’s degree in applied physics, nanotechnology, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline
• Strong background in micro-scale systems or robotics
• Experience in optical sensing, photonics, or light-based micro-scale actuation
• Experience in micro- and nano-fabrication (e.g., lithography, thin-film processing, MEMS, micro-assembly)
• Experience in modeling and control of micro-robotic or compliant robotic systems
• Experience in integration of miniaturized sensing and actuation systems for biomedical or robotic applications
• Experience combining optical technologies with micro-fabrication or robotics is considered an advantage

Required documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact details for at least two academic references
• Title and abstract of Master's project/thesis
• Motivation letter and/or list of publications (submitted via the online portal)

When to apply

• Application deadline: October 1, 2026 (noted as September 30, 2026 in vacancy summary)
• Interviews take place approximately 4 weeks after application

How to apply

• Step 1: Submit your application online including your CV, motivation letter, list of publications, and Master's thesis details.
• Step 2: Selection committee reviews applications and provides feedback within 2 weeks after vacancy closure.
• Step 3: First interview (online or in person) for mutual introduction, which may include a short presentation.
• Step 4: Second interview focusing on job content, skills, and personal talents.
• Step 5: Official offer extended to successful candidates, followed by screening procedures if applicable.

Additional information

• Screening is part of the recruitment procedure.
• For substantive questions about the position, contact Prof. Sarthak Misra at s.misra@utwente.nl or +31 53 489 2704.