About the opportunity
The Engineering Dynamics group within the Faculty of Engineering Technology at the University of Twente is seeking a postdoc candidate for the project “Scale-up PIC based sensing PhotonDelta FBG Sensing”. The research focuses on developing a Physics Informed Machine Learning method to handle Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) temperature dependency, combining physics-based and data-driven models to improve the accuracy and robustness of PIC-based sensing modules. The role involves both experimental work, in collaboration with industrial partner PhotonFirst, and modelling to identify physical relations between temperature and photonic circuitry.
Salary and benefits
- Gross monthly salary between €4,422 and €5,760 depending on experience and qualifications.
- Holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary.
- Year-end bonus of 8.3%.
- Solid pension scheme.
- Access to facilities for professional and personal development and a training program.
- Secondary conditions in accordance with the collective labor agreement CAO-NU for Dutch universities.
Who can apply?
- PhD degree.
- Background in mechanical engineering or similar.
- Good spoken and written English.
- Ability to work in a team.
- Research experience on photonics and affinity with data-driven methods are preferred.
Required documents
- CV (including contact information for at least two academic references).
- Original motivation letter indicating fit with the position and associated ambition.
When to apply
- Apply before September 1, 2026.
- First job interviews are planned for mid-September.
How to apply
- Apply online by uploading a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications.
- 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 require 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…
- Researchers with a PhD and a background in mechanical engineering or related fields.
- Candidates with specific research experience in photonics and an affinity for data-driven methods.
- Individuals who thrive in collaborative environments, particularly when working with industrial partners.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is on-site in Enschede, requiring relocation if you are not already based in the Netherlands.
- You should be prepared to balance experimental laboratory work with complex modeling tasks.
- The role involves close collaboration with an industrial partner, which may influence the pace and direction of your research.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This postdoc is a perfect fit for a researcher looking to bridge the gap between academic physics and industrial application. It offers the chance to work on cutting-edge PIC-based sensing while gaining experience in Physics Informed Machine Learning, which is highly valuable for a career in either academia or high-tech industry.
Our take
This is a great fit for researchers with a strong foundation in photonics and a desire to see their work applied in industrial sensing. Those who prefer purely theoretical research may find the industrial collaboration aspect less aligned with their interests.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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