About the opportunity
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is offering two fully funded PhD positions within project VALOR, an interdisciplinary collaboration involving academia, industry, and government partners. The project focuses on developing a new generation of lightweight composite panels that protect sensitive electronics from electromagnetic threats while withstanding impact events. The successful candidates will join the Processing and Performance of Materials section. PhD 1 focuses on mechanics and manufacturing, involving 3D printing nanocomposite lattice materials, fabricating composite facesheets, and mechanical testing. PhD 2 focuses on electromagnetic testing and design, involving polymer nanocomposite formulation, electromagnetic characterization, and shielding simulations. Both researchers will work as an integrated team from material screening to panel design and testing.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment for four years with an intermediate assessment after nine months
- Monthly gross base salary ranging from €3,204 to €4,051 in accordance with scale P of the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities
- An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus calculated on the annual gross base salary
- Standard leave of 29 days per year, expandable up to 41 days through flexible working hours
- Participation in the ABP pension scheme with TU/e covering 70% of the premium
- High-quality training programs and support for professional development as a scientific researcher
- Access to modern on-campus facilities including the TU/e Student Sports Center and free 24/7 mental health support via OpenUp
- Allowances for commuting, working from home, and internet costs, alongside immigration support and a tax compensation expat scheme for international candidates
Who can apply?
- For PhD 1 (Mechanics and manufacturing): A master's degree or equivalent with excellent grades in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in mechanics of materials or solid mechanics
- For PhD 2 (Electromagnetic testing and design): A master's degree or equivalent with excellent grades in Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical), Materials Science, or Applied Physics with a specialization in materials
- A strong interest in combining experimental work with numerical modelling
- Enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary team alongside industrial and defense partners
- A research-oriented mindset characterized by critical thinking
- Fluency in English, both spoken and written, at C1 level
Required documents
- Cover letter describing motivation and qualifications for the position
- Curriculum vitae, including a list of publications and contact information for three references
- Complete overview of grades obtained for both bachelor's and master's degrees
When to apply
- Position published on October 22, 2026
- Application deadline is November 22, 2026
How to apply
- Submit a complete application online using the official apply button on the vacancy portal
- Ensure all required documents including cover letter, CV, and grade transcripts are attached; complete applications receive priority consideration
Additional information
- Candidates are required to spend a minimum of 10% and a maximum of 15% of their four-year employment on teaching tasks annually
- A pre-employment screening, which may include a knowledge security check, can be part of the selection procedure
- Applications sent by email or post will not be processed
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…
- Researchers holding a master's degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, or applied physics who want to bridge experimental laboratory work and numerical simulations
- Candidates eager to collaborate directly with industrial and defense partners on high-impact, multidisciplinary engineering projects
- Applicants seeking a fully salaried European PhD position with comprehensive employee benefits, pension scheme, and relocation support
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires a four-year commitment to a full-time academic contract based on-site in Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Involves mandatory teaching duties ranging from 10% to 15% of the annual working time
- Applicants must meet strict English C1 language proficiency requirements and possess specific academic specializations in materials or solid mechanics
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This four-year structured PhD position is ideal for individuals looking to build a rigorous academic career in advanced materials and manufacturing or transition into high-tech industrial research and development. The combination of state-of-the-art laboratory access, international conference exposure, and close collaboration with industry leaders provides strong preparation for future research roles.
Our take
Motivated master's graduates with a solid background in solid mechanics, materials science, or electromagnetism who are interested in advanced polymer composites should apply before the November 22, 2026 deadline. The role is less suitable for candidates seeking remote work arrangements or those without a strong foundation in experimental-numerical materials research.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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