The TU Delft Bicycle Lab is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a 12 month full time contract with a starting date before the end of 2021. The researcher will develop and execute an engineering research project for the "Bicycle of the Future" grant which is supported by ClickNL (https://www.clicknl.nl) and Royal Dutch Gazelle (https://www.gazellebikes.com). The aim of the TU Delft and Gazelle collaboration is to arrive at design solutions that make the bicycle both safer and more employable in society.

You will work on a project co-developed with the bicycle lab and Royal Dutch Gazelle that fits into one or more of these three topics:

Making the bicycle safer from design changes, braking and traction control, and tailoring the design and assistance to the skills of the rider. Solutions that prolong and increase bicycling by the elderly are of particular interest.

Cloud connected electric bicycles open the opportunity to use data collected from a variety of sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, GNSS receiver, torque load cells, etc.) to improve transportation safety, efficiency, personalization, and many other aspects. This topic should use this technology to bring computer intelligence to bicycle transportation with a focus on the vehicle’s use of this information.  

Electric bicycles are being widely used to transport goods within urban environments. This topic should develop and showcase new technology to the design of electric cargo bicycles to improve the logistics and supply chain in urban cargo delivery.

Development of proof-of-concept prototype vehicles and vehicle technologies is a desired outcome of the proposed research projects.

You will work at TU Delft in the 3ME Faculty, mostly in the TU Delft Bicycle Laboratory. You will work closely with and be mentored by Jason K. Moore and Arend L. Schwab. You will also work with and collaborate with Gazelle employees. Lastly, you will work with BSc, MSc, and PhD candidates of the lab.

Opportunities for growing your academic career will be available, such as mentoring BSc/Students and PhD candidates, conference presentation, networking, and grant writing.

You have a PhD degree in engineering in mechanical or biomechanical or related discipline by the start date of the position. If a related discipline please justify in your cover letter. Excellent command of the English language is required, as well as excellent communication skills. 

Fixed-term contract: 10 months.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 3.548 - € 4.474). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.