Systems Chemistry for Robotics

A sense of touch allows us to handle objects with fine motor skills and navigate the complexities of everyday life. Robots struggle with even simple tasks, because their sensing capabilities remain limited. It is incredibly hard to achieve the level of sophistication and high-density integration of sensing, signal processing, and movement that comes so naturally to us. This project, funded by an European Starting Grant, aims to develop a new class of chemical touch sensors that can be incorporated into robotic prototypes.

As an experienced chemist with a track-record in systems chemistry and microfluidics and skills in kinetic modelling, you will pioneer new concepts in chemically-driven robotics. In this 2-year project, you will develop innervated soft robotic hands and study how chemical reaction networks propagate signals within these robotic components. Work in a state-of-the-art laboratory together with experts in mechanochemistry, materials, and actuator design. 

What are you going to do?

Your main tasks will include to:

-       design reaction networks that propagate chemical signals to chemical actuators

-       model and predict signalling dynamics

-       develop robotic prototypes with built-in microfluidic channels

-       build and maintain chemical and robotic setups

-       train and supervise students

-       excel in a top chemistry group with top-notch infrastructure

We are looking for a collaborative, creative, and excellent colleague with:

-       a PhD. degree in synthetic and systems chemistry or equivalent.

-       a proven track-record in designing reaction networks, working with microfluidic setups, and kinetic modelling.

-       proficiency in advanced analytical techniques and project management.

-       motivation to learn about polymer chemistry and robotic design.

-       excellent publication record, international visibility, and strong independent thinking skills.

-       demonstrable leadership experience in supervising undergraduate students.

-       motivation to develop grant writing skills.

-       excellent communication skills for engaging with both professional and lay audiences.

-       well-developed communication and collaboration skills and the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment. 

Postdoctoral researchers are expected to demonstrate scientific independence, complete own research projects within a larger research agenda, and co-supervise PhD and undergraduate students. They play an integral part in running the project, lead subgroups, stay abreast of developments across fields, and showcase their work in the international community. We are looking forward for you to joining our team to develop signalling chemistry for touch sensing and create new robotic prototypes. 

• 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
• End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) provides teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, from physics and biology to artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, and pharmacy. In close collaboration with partners from industry, healthcare, and society, we contribute to the urgent challenges of our time, such as energy, sustainability, digitization, and medical technology. Our community is open and informal, with more than 7,000 students, 1,000 PhD students, and 1,400 staff members from all over the world. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Science and Engineering, visit rug.nl/fse. 

Our team, led by Dr. Michael M. Lerch, aims to create a chemical operating system for robots, thereby developing novel chemistry and materials with unprecedented functions. We believe that chemistry can close the performance gap between living organisms and current electronic robots. Over the years, we have built a unique pipeline where we take newly synthesized molecules, incorporate them into materials, and shape them into functional devices. You will work in an international and interdisciplinary team in a fast-paced, creative, and collaborative research environment, based at the renowned Stratingh Institute at the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen. The functional materials we develop are societally relevant; as part of ARC CBBC and HTRIC, we work with industrial partners and clinical experts to develop next generation functional coatings and clinically relevant robots. The University of Groningen and the Lerch Research Group strive to create an equitable, inclusive, and respectful environment, where researchers of different backgrounds and disciplines can work at the forefront of science. 

Do you have any questions or need more information?

Questions about the content of the job?
Michael Lerch (Assistant Professor): m.m.lerch@rug.nl

Questions about your application process?
Dorien Smit (Human Resources Adviser): dorien.smit@rug.nl