The Challenge

In this role, you will work closely with academic and industry partners to develop innovative digital enabled technologies and methods for the design and operation of future manufacturing. In line with the Industry 5.0 paradigm, aspects like sustainability in manufacturing (e.g. circular manufacturing systems, energy efficiency/flexibility) and human centricity (e.g. future workplace design, assistance systems) are of crucial importance in this context. As a PhD researcher, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative research environment with leading researchers and industry partners in the field. You´ll be also connected to our smart manufacturing related infrastructures, e.g. the learning and research factory, which facilitate the development, testing/demonstration and training of latest technologies. You will also receive training and support to develop your research skills and advance your career.

• You can switch between researching the future factory and publishing results in reputable journals, and also design practical applications that work with real people on the factory floor.
• We are seeking candidates with a relevant engineering background in manufacturing, design and development (ideally in the application fields mentioned above), or related fields.
• You have skills in design and automation of future oriented manufacturing processes, machines and process chains - ideally already with background and experiences in the field of sustainable manufacturing and/or human factors in manufacturing.
• You have skills in information and communication technology: experience with hardware, software, and programming to support data collection, automation, and control systems.
• You have skills in data analytics/machine learning: proficiency in data processing, analysis, and interpretation to develop predictive models and optimize manufacturing processes.
• You have skills in modelling/assessment of technical systems: ability to develop, integrate and apply models for the assessment, visualisation and optimization of technical systems/factories.
• Besides a clear research perspective, you are a "hands-on" person who enjoys building physical prototypes from low-tech to high-tech
• You have strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently as well in a team.
• You have ideally already experience with working in an international research environment.
• You have excellent communication skills and are proficient in English, both spoken and written.

• We offer you an exciting position in an inspiring multidisciplinary environment. The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in which internationalization is an important part of the strategic agenda.
• We offer a four-year fulltime PhD position.
• We provide a stimulating, modern research environment with world-class research facilities.
• You will be part of a dedicated team with which you will collaborate extensively with industry.
• A starting salary of €2.770,- gross per month in the first year and increasing to €3.539,- gross per month in the fourth year.
• An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• A solid pension scheme.
• Minimum of 29 leave days in case of full-time employment.
• We provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment to accelerate your further professional and personal growth.
• The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with lots of facilities for sports and other activities.
• Your first responsibility is to carry out the research, but you are also encouraged to acquire teaching experience. We support you to broaden your knowledge by joining international exchange programs, by participating in national and international conferences and workshops, and by visiting industrial companies, research institutes, and universities worldwide.

Additional information about this position can be obtained from Prof. Sebastian Thiede, Chair of Manufacturing Systems (e-mail: s.thiede@utwente.nl) at the faculty of Engineering Technology of the University of Twente.

The application deadline is May 24th 2024. You must use the “apply now” button below to submit your application. Please upload your application, including:

• A full Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, references, and, if applicable, a list of publications.
• A Motivational letter (maximum 2 page A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position, and research ideas for the PhD project.

We will hold the first round of interviews (via MSTeams) on June 7th 2024.