The Robotics group at the University of Groningen has a vacancy for a doctoral student on soft robotics. More precisely, the PhD position focuses on: (i) the design and fabrication of actuation components for soft robots by using novel (soft) materials and design approaches; (ii) development of (analytical, numerical, predictive) models; (iii) develop of (non-linear) control techniques; (iv) experimental validation.

The successful candidate should have:
• a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, applied physics, or in closely related disciplines
• excellent skills and practical experience in one or more of the following research areas: (soft) robotics, mechatronics, systems and control, MEMs, or material science
• strong academic credentials
• written and spoken English proficiency.

Fixed-term contract: 48 months.

The University of Groningen offers a salary of € 2,222 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 2,840 in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU), in the fourth and final year gross per month, based on a full-time position (1.0 FTE), excluding a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and a 8.3% end-of-the-year allowance. The position is limited to a period of 4 years. A PhD training programme is part of the agreement and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science and Engineering.
The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is to be expected.

The preferred starting date is 1 April 2018

Application
You may apply for this position until 15 February 23:59 h / before 16 February 2018 Dutch local time by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

Application should include:
• letter of motivation
• CV (including contact information for at least two academic references)
• transcripts from your bachelor’s and master’s degree.

The vacancy remains open until the position is filled.

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programmes and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 30,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global centre of knowledge.

Within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the ALICE (Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Engineering) Institute conducts – among others – research in Robotics.
The Robotics group develops systems that are intended to physically interact with uncertain dynamic environments and to cooperate with humans. The group’s main focus is the development of novel actuation systems, which are the key enabling components for motion generation. The work is accomplished by developing unique mechanical designs and intelligent control architectures. Current research projects focus on bio-inspired soft robots and lower-limb prosthetic devices. The Robotics lab is equipped with rapid prototyping facilities (3D printer and laser cutter), and instruments for electromechanical characterization.