The challenge

Mass customization requires flexible and adaptive manufacturing processes that operate reliably at high production rates. Embedding process knowledge in the process control system is crucial for determining adequate process settings for different product configurations, particularly in metal forming applications.
In the area of battery or fuel cell production, a wide array of product variants must be manufactured in mass production on highest quality level. The next step in the development of flexible and adaptive mass production systems for metal sheet or foil forming will be taken in the design of a demonstrator production system for energy related components (e.g. battery pouch or bipolar plate forming) at the University of Twente. This will be accomplished in a multidisciplinary collaboration project with the departments of Design, Production and Management, and of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces and Systems, within the Faculty’s strategic research theme Intelligent Manufacturing Systems.
You will design a flexible manufacturing system focusing on forming of battery pouches. The system will be part of a battery production demonstrator line, and a carrier for future research in flexible forming. The work will encompass a modelling and design phase for selection of adequate sensing and actuation systems, such that the flexibility of the system is maximized, followed by a realization and testing phase.
As part of the Engineering Doctorate (EngD) program, you will receive a tailored traineeship comprising courses, workshops, and deepening the theoretical understanding acquired during your university education. You will apply all knowledge gained in this multidisciplinary design project. Your training scheme is customized to your personal and professional skills and the demands of this project.

On successfully completing the program, you will receive a certified and recognised degree. You will be entitled to use the academic title of Engineering Doctorate (EngD) and will be registered as a Technological Designer in the Dutch register kept by the Royal Institution of Engineers in the Netherlands (KIVI).

• We are looking for an enthusiastic, professional, and ambitious graduated master's student.
• You hold a master’s degree in the field of Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• You have strong interest in manufacturing and/or design.
• You have strong capacity for independent problem-solving, creative thinking, and a hands-on attitude.
• Critical thinking and strong analytical skills, and therefore capable to assess various process design solutions.
• You are experienced with (nonlinear) finite element modelling.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team of researchers and collaborate effectively with other experts as needed for the project.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.

• A very challenging position in an inspiring multidisciplinary environment.
• Two-year fulltime EngD position.
• In this time, we will provide you with a tailor-made post-master design program that has an educational component (50%) as well as a design project (50%).
• Challenging work in an inspiring multidisciplinary environment with enthusiastic colleagues.
• Full status as an employee at the UT, including pension and health care benefits.
• Tailor-made educational/development program of 12 months (60 EC) .
• A salary of €2.618,- gross per month.
• An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• Minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of fulltime employment.
• You have to be willing to move to (the vicinity of) Enschede. A relocation allowance or temporary housing allowance may be part of the offer.
• The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with lots of facilities for sports and other activities.
• We provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment to accelerate your further professional and personal growth.
• According to website UT: 6-10 EC professional development courses and >=45 EC in-depth and broadening courses.