Durability of building materials has a multi-physics character, and is determined by the resistance to degradation and damage under a combination of mechanical loading, fluctuations in temperature and relative humidity, transport and reactions by chemical species, aging processes, etc. These complex, interactive processes will be analyzed by means of coupled multi-physics models, in order to arrive at improved and/or new building materials with high-quality durability characteristics. For the validation and verification of the numerical models, use will be made of the research facilities in the Building Physics Laboratories and the Structures Laboratory. Durability will contribute to the social challenge of sustainability.

As an Assistant Professor, you will perform research at the forefront of multi-physics modelling of durable materials and structures, with a strong focus on finding optimal solutions regarding their mechanical, physical and functional performances. You will participate actively in the teaching of courses and the supervision of MSc and PhD students.  You will be involved in the writing of research proposals and the acquisition of external funds to strengthen current and achieve new research initiatives in the chair. You will pursue strategic internal and external collaborations, and publish your research results in high-quality scientific journals and maintain and expand an effective network of cooperation partners in academia, institutes and industry.

Chair of Applied Mechanics

The chair of Applied Mechanics focuses on the development and application of advanced models for multiscale and multiphysics problems relevant to structures and materials in the built environment. Mechanical, physical and chemical processes, such as the evolution of damage, fracture, plasticity and aging phenomena, and the transport of heat, moisture and chemical species, are simulated in a coupled fashion at different levels of observation. Examples of present projects are the multi-scale mechanical behaviour of fibre-reinforced composites, the preservation of art objects under fluctuating climate circumstances, the 3D printing of wall structures, the chemical degradation of concrete structures, and the improvement of the structural integrity of wind turbines under complex air flow conditions. The purpose is to understand the governing phenomena and their interactions in detail, therewith providing a basis for the efficient development and improvement of building materials and structures. The research further aims at finding optimal structural designs under representative loading conditions, as, for example, can be realized by applying advanced (multi-objective) optimization techniques. In addition to research, the chair is responsible for the BSc and MSc mechanics courses in the educational program of the department. The chair is affiliated to the national Graduate School on Engineering Mechanics and the Eindhoven Multiscale Institute.

We offer a stimulating and ambitious educational and research environment and are looking for candidates with the following qualifications:

• You hold a PhD degree in the field of applied mechanics.
• You have 3 years of working experience in an academic environment (not including your PhD period)
• You have demonstrated your research skills by means of publications in top journals and contributions to reputed conferences.
• You have excellent communication, organization and leadership skills.
• You are a team player by nature, but able to collaboratively as well as independent.
• You have a clear vision on education, and should consider teaching equally important as research. You are able to create a vibrant and effective learning environment and have the ability to motivate students.
• You have proven capabilities in the acquisition of research grants.
• You have a good command of English, both orally and in writing.
• You have experience in guiding and supporting PhD students.
• A background in the field of the Built Environment and design is a plus.

We offer a challenging job in a dynamic and ambitious university. The city of Eindhoven offers a relaxed, multicultural environment, high quality of life and many options for extra-curricular activities. The city has a mild climate, and it is well-connected by rail, air, and road links with major European cities. The city is at the heart of the Brainport region of Netherlands, a region with rapid growth, innovation and many permanent employment opportunities for expats. TU/e actively facilitates career opportunities for partners. Candidates moving to the Netherlands from abroad may qualify for a tax incentive scheme, where 30% of your income is tax free for a (maximum) period of five years. Click here for more information.

We offer a temporary appointment for five years in a 'development track'. The development track can lead to a permanent appointment with the prospect of becoming associate professor. This provides young and talented scientists with the opportunity to grow into an internationally acknowledged academic. Based upon performance indicators a decision will be made in the final year whether or not to offer you a permanent position.

We offer support to your professional and personal development.  The TU/e helps its scientific staff to further develop their teaching skills by offering a training program that leads to the official teaching certification from Dutch Universities (University Teaching Qualification). Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to participate in the training Academic Leadership for Assistant Professors and a mentoring program.

Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to participate in the training Academic Leadership for Assistant Professors. And we offer you a mentoring program with the aim to support the professional and personal development of assistant professors.

Gross monthly salaries are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO NU). Salary is based on knowledge and experience and is at least € 3,637 up to a max. of

€ 4,978 gross per month (salary scale 11, CAO NU) at a fulltime appointment; plus 8% holiday allowance and 8,3 % end-of-year allowance. TU/e provides an attractive package of fringe benefits (including excellent work facilities, child care on campus and excellent sport facilities).  The TU/e offers several spouse programs for partners of the candidates.