In modern engineering, designing structural systems that involve contact and friction is reaching a higher complexity. The selection of possible construction materials increased drastically over the last decade (i.e. composites, polymers, metamaterials or smart materials), and the designed structures are also required to achieve higher structural performances. Be it because of exposure to harsher environmental/operational conditions or because of more daring engineering solutions. Key to the successful design of modern engineering structures is the understanding by, experimental and numerical investigation, and optimal design of interfaces and joints at a broad range of scales. Examples of such interfaces are wheel-rail/road interactions, structural joints in wind turbines, fibre-reinforced polymers and composites with embedded sensors. The interface mechanics also plays a governing role in the processes of recycling of plastic and other engineering materials.  

To address the above challenges, the Engineering Structures Department of TU Delft is looking for an Assistant Professor (tenure-track) in the field of Contact and Interface Mechanics, with excellent scientific track record in one or more of the following broadly defined areas: Development of experimental methodologies to characterize friction and contact forces in engineering systems; Analytical and numerical modelling of frictional processes and contact at different length and time scales, in the context of applications outlined above; Understanding of the fundamental processes of the interaction between friction mechanisms and system dynamics; Active control of the contact interaction.

The subject of Contact Mechanics and Interfaces is interdisciplinary and so the candidate will work closely with colleagues within the department and faculty to develop multidisciplinary solutions. The successful candidate is expected to contribute to the initiation, acquisition, and execution of research projects and to the supervision of PhD and MSc students. Cooperation with other members of the scientific staff and establishing relationships with the relevant industrial parties are important. A due contribution to teaching at the MSc and BSc levels is also envisaged.   

We seek a colleague who has the dedication to pursue a career in academia. You have a PhD degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or in another relevant discipline. You have good knowledge of interfaces and frictional mechanics and experimental skills are expected.

You are able to demonstrate outstanding research potential and have published in leading international scientific journals.

You are expected to establish a strong, externally funded, research programme and are committed to excel in teaching at undergraduate (Dutch or English) as well as graduate (English) levels. Experience in teaching is considered as an advantage. We also value organizational and leadership skills and an open personality.

Besides that,

• You are expected to like to work in a team, in a cooperative and amicable environment and possess good organisational and communication skills.
• Good communication skills in written and spoken English are crucial. Knowledge of Dutch is appreciated but is not a pre-requisite for the employment.   

Fixed-term contract: Tenure.

At the start of the tenure-track you will be appointed as Assistant Professor for the duration of six years. Section leader, department leader and you will agree upon expected performance and (soft) skills. You will receive a start-up package and formal feedback on performance and skills during annual assessment meetings and the mid-term evaluation. If the performance and skills are evaluated positively at the end of the tenure track, you will be appointed in a permanent position.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged and parttime employment is possible. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. 

TU Delft sets specific standards for the English competency of the teaching staff. TU Delft offers training to improve English competency.

Inspiring, excellent education is our central aim. If you do not yet have your teaching certificate, we allow you up to three years to obtain this. 

Technische Universiteit Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The position is open at the Department of Engineering Structures of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences of TU Delft. The department offers a lively and dynamic international research and education environment.  

The research focus of the department is placed on the investigation and development of resilient, smart and sustainable structures and infrastructures as well as on the structures for energy transition. Within these main themes research is carried out into the dynamics of structures, mechanics of materials related to e.g. climate change, modelling and design of railway systems, multi-scale modelling of materials and structures, reuse of materials, structures and parts of structures, assessment methods for structures, smart monitoring techniques, design methods, replacement and renovation of civil infrastructure and development of new materials and maintenance techniques. The groups are intensively using the unique Macro Mechanics Laboratory for full scale testing, monitoring and modelling of structures to facilitate fast implementation of innovations. The Department delivers a large number of courses both at the BSc and MSc levels.

The faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology and delta technology. The research covers global social issues and is closely connected to education as well as the work of a wide range of knowledge institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to realise these goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

More information about the faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences, click here.
More information about the department of Engineering Structures, click here.