Ultrasound technologies have been used for decades in biomedical imaging and therapy, due to its non-invasive nature and versatility. Ultrasound transceivers have evolved from single-element transducers to 1D and 2D arrays, allowing for 2D and 3D imaging respectively through beamforming. The successes of ultrasound systems in clinical practice are pushing for devices in settings and scales not accessible so far. Examples of potential locations for ultrasound transceivers include medical catheters, implants and cell phones.

The main hurdle for ultrasound imaging to conquer these new application niches is the need for high-quality microscaled ultrasound transducers. The critical and desirable characteristics are high power efficiency, low actuation voltages, good noise performance, and scalability to form large arrays. This project focuses on the development of a new type of ultrasound transducer based on high-coupling piezoelectric materials, such as lithium niobate and lithium tantalate.

• Research mindset and self-motivation towards technological innovation.
• Background in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics or related disciplines.
• MSc degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
• Analytical problem-solving skills.
• At least some experience with FEM simulation.
• Good communication skills in English.
• Programming skills, e.g. Matlab or Python.
• Affinity for team working and guiding students.

Highly desirable:

• Knowledge and hands-on experience in microfabrication or cleanroom processing.
• Theoretical knowledge of piezoelectricity.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2443 per month in the first year to € 3122 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three disciplines - electrical engineering, mathematics and computer science. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make future-proof. We are also working on a world in which humans and computers reinforce each other. We are mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. There is plenty of room here for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1,100 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.