We are looking for a PhD student (with Dentistry, Engineer, Biomedical Technology and Physics, or correlated background) for materials research in dentistry.

Within medical sciences, dentistry is leading the way in digitizing treatment processes. The Department of Department of Restorative and Reconstructive Oral Care together with Biomaterials is looking for a Ph.D. student for a research project involving the digitization of the production of dental devices. Are you intrigued by the transformative potential of 3D printing in dentistry, particularly in the realm of materials innovation and optimized design for oral rehabilitation? Do you wish to participate in how these advancements are reshaping dental practices, from work methodologies to treatment outcomes, and influencing the very essence of oral care professions? Are you drawn to the idea of immersing yourself as an expert within dental organizations, observing and analysing the intricate dynamics of 3D printing technology and personalized health care? If so, we invite you to consider applying for a PhD position at the forefront of research, within the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA)

As emerging technologies continue to revolutionize dental procedures, the discourse surrounding their impact often oscillates between exaggerated claims and speculative forecasts. At ACTA, you will have the opportunity to work with people from different departments, who are committed to transcending these superficial narratives by investigating proof of concepts and evidence-based dental practices to conduct rigorous, field-based science. Central to our approach is a profound appreciation for the developmental trajectory of 3D printing technologies, wherein considerations of end-user needs and workflow integration are still in development. Moreover, our research methodology emphasizes the inclusion of diverse stakeholders—from materials scientists and dental technicians to practitioners and field leaders—ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the technology's implications in the dental office.

Through immersive, long-term engagements within ACTA dental organization, our PhD candidates contribute invaluable insights to the evolving discourse on technology's role in oral healthcare delivery. Together, we will assess material’s properties, prosthetic designs and fatigue behavior of 3D-printed structures. Join us in shaping the future of oral rehabilitation through meticulous inquiry and collaborative scholarship, alongside esteemed researchers such as Dr. João Tribst, Dr. Albert Feilzer, Dr. Cees Kleverlaan, and Dr. Amanda Dal Piva. Apply now and embark on a journey of discovery at the nexus of technology and dental care.

Your duties

• The PhD student will conduct theoretical and in-vitro research on themes such as the mechanical behavior of 3D-printed constructions; the impact of aging/fatigue on 3D-printed oral devices; and the role of post-processing techniques in the outcomes of those devices.
• The PhD student will do lab studies and will receive training for operating several apparatus from research as well as from the dental laboratory. Eventually assisting in the 3D-designing of oral devices and participating in the applicability of those by the master students.
• The PhD student will provide a modest contribution to the Department’s teaching program, participating in literature discussions with colleagues and post-graduation students.

• Motivated to do high-quality research with the aim of publishing top-level articles for both an organizational science and practitioner audience.
• Academic writing skills.
• Communication skills required to collaborate with an industry partner(s) and in scientific events.
• High proficiency in English language; Dutch proficiency (or willingness to learn) preferred.
• Master's degree in a field related to dentistry, biomedical sciences, biomedical technology, bioinformatics, health sciences, or correlated field.
• Expertise in and affinity with qualitative research methods e.g. three-point bending, shear bond strength testing, fracture load assessment, and fatigue methods.
• Candidates with affinity in CAD software and/or experience with Finite Element Analysis are welcome.

As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset.

We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

A challenging position in a socially involved organisation. At ACTA, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So in return for your efforts, we offer you:

• a salary of minimum € 2.770,00 (PhD) and maximum € 3.539,00 (PhD) gross per month, on a full-time basis. This is based on UFO profile PhD candidate. The exact salary depends on your education and experience.
• a position for at least 1 FTE. Your employment contract will initially last 1 year. After a satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, the contract will be extended for a duration of 4 years.

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and regulations. Some examples:

• A full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year. If you choose to work 40 hours, you have 96 extra holiday leave hours on an annual basis. For part-timers, this is calculated pro rata.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• solid pension scheme (ABP)
• contribution to commuting expenses
• optional model for designing a personalized benefits package

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

ACTA aspires to be the premier dental knowledge center in the Netherlands, recognized nationally and internationally for its excellence in education, research, impact, and (top-tier) patient care.

A healthy mouth for everyone: that is the mission ACTA pursues daily. ACTA's staff engages in scientific research, delivers education, and provides patient care. Every day, staff and students treat around 300 patients. In total, 900 students are enrolled in the bachelor's and master's programs in Dentistry and the post-initial master's program in Oral Health Science. Additionally, ACTA offers continuing education for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. ACTA enjoys high international esteem, holding the second position in the international QS Ranking.

ACTA is a collaborative venture between the Dentistry faculties of the UvA and the VU, situated on the VU campus.

About the UvA and VU:
The University of Amsterdam has 43,000 students and 6,000 staff members. At the VU, over 31,000 students and 5,000 staff members are enrolled. The two universities jointly offer programs in Dentistry, Liberal Arts & Sciences, and various master's programs in the sciences.

UvA and VU advocate for an inclusive community and consider diversity crucial for the quality of education and research. We prioritize diversity and are fully committed to creating an environment where everyone feels at home, regardless of their background, skin color, or beliefs.

Are you interested in this position and do you believe that your experience will contribute to the further development of our university? In that case, we encourage you to submit your application.

Application materials: cover letter explaining why are interested in this position, CV with academic achievements, MSc diploma or a list of courses and grades at the MSc level, proof of writing skills (MSc thesis or a co-authored peer-reviewed published manuscript) and the names and e-mail of two references.

The preferred starting date is a mutually agreed date on or before September 1, 2024.

Applications received by e-mail will not be considered.

Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated.