Future mechatronic systems will be characterized by a high degree of function integration in order to meet space and performance requirements as well as the desire to use less material and energy. In mechatronic systems, many fields of expertise come together. We envision not only integration of behavior by advanced modeling and control, but also embodiments where functions such as motion, transmission, actuation and sensing are distributed and naturally intertwine. By creating these truly integrated mechatronic systems, we aim to break new technological ground and achieve unprecedented performance in high-tech manufacturing equipment, medical technology and instrumentation, and related fields, thereby leading industry and society to reaching sustainable development goals.

You will be part of the Mechatronic System Design section within the Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering at the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Our research is characterized by a balance between curiosity and application driven projects, oftentimes supported by industry.

Currently, precision mechanisms, tribology and control are represented in our section. We are well-established scientifically as well as in Dutch industry, and are looking to expand our expertise areas. You will have the chance to contribute from your background that complements and reinforces the expertise already present. We invite candidates who's expertise is close to one or more of the following or related fields, with either research or educational focus:

• Predictive modeling (dynamics and control)
• Multiphysics modeling (interaction of different physical phenomena)
• Dynamics of (compliant) mechanisms
• Actuation and control of flexible robotics
• Metrology and distributed sensing
• Precision mechatronic system design
• Micromachine component design

You will closely collaborate with your colleagues, while at the same time develop your own research direction that you will develop independently into a viable research group. Teaching will be an important aspect of your work, both classroom teaching and graduation project supervision. You can participate in existing classes or develop your own course, both at BSc or MSc level. In all of these modalities you will have a lot of opportunity to innovate and develop your own style.

We have extensive laboratory facilities, including modern manufacturing and characterization equipment, and is run by a team of professional technicians. We have an open and supportive atmosphere and there are ample opportunities to collaborate in the department, the faculty as well as other groups inside and outside of the university, and with companies.

A start-up package will include a 4-year PhD student position plus required materials and equipment.  

To be considered for the position you will have

• A PhD degree in a field relevant to the position.
• Experience as a postdoc researcher or similar (e.g. R&D in high-tech company).
• A portfolio of journal publications, patents, designs and/or demonstrators that illustrate your theoretical and practical expertise.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English, willingness to learn Dutch.
• Affection for teaching and preferably some experience.
• A collaborative attitude.

Fixed-term contract: 6 years.

A tenure-track position is offered for six years. In the fifth year we’ll decide if you will be offered a permanent faculty position, based on performance indicators agreed upon at the start of the appointment. We expect that you have the potential to grow towards an Associate Professor and/or Full Professor role in the future. For more information about the tenure track and the personal development programme, please visit www.tudelft.nl/tenuretrack.

Inspiring, excellent education is our central aim. We expect you to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) within three years if you have less than five years of teaching experience. This is provided by the TU Delft UTQ programme.
TU Delft sets high standards for the English competency of the teaching staff. The TU Delft offers training to improve English competency. If you do not speak Dutch, we offer courses to learn the Dutch language within three years.

The salary for a Tenure Track (Assistant Professor) position is min. €3.974 to max. €6.181 per month gross.

For exceptionally strong candidates, a shortened tenure track period or Associate Professor position can be considered.

For an Associate Professor position different terms of employment apply. Depending on background and experience, the salary can range from min. € 5.506 to max. €7.362 per month gross.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. 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 as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

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.