The (fully funded) PhD position is linked to the NWO-Vidi project ‘Visual communication of material properties’ lead by Maarten Wijntjes. In this project, we will investigate how artists represent material properties in various forms of pictorial communication (e.g. painting, drawing and photography). We will investigate this through developing an annotated database of material depictions. The PhD candidate will contribute to collecting perceptual judgements of depicted materials through crowdsourcing. Specifically, the candidate will investigate the relation between perceived material properties and images cues. Furthermore, a relation is sought between image cues and artistic practices that lead to effective communications of material properties.
There is some space within the project to emphasize either a psychological, computational or art historical component, although all three should be present.

First, and foremost, we are looking for a curious and analytical personality who is (or will be after reading this ad) as intrigued by visual perception as we are. Applicants should have a recent MSc degree in (experimental) physics, experimental psychology, computer science, industrial design, or a similar field. We will also consider canditates with an art historical background who have a strong (and demonstrable) interest in empirical (perception) research.
Other requirements are: social skills, teamwork skills, experimental research experience, mathematical skills (e.g. calculus at the bachelor’s level), good scientific writing skills in English and good (English) verbal communication.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

The 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. 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.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.graduateschool.tudelft.nl for more information.

For more information about this position, please feel free to contact Dr. Maarten Wijntjes, e-mail: m.w.a.wijntjes@tudelft.nl. To apply send a letter of application, a detailed CV, one recent academic publication (or master's thesis), a statement of research interests (concerning this project) and the affiliations and contact information of two people who could furnish a letter of reference. Please e-mail your application by 15 June 2017 to: afdelingID-personeelszaken-IO@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number AT/IO-0731.

Delft University of Technology

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

Industrial Design Engineering

The Department of Industrial Design is recognized as an international leader in design research and was ranked as excellent by an international review panel in 2015. It houses the Perceptual Intelligence lab, a centre of expertise on applied perception research and interdisciplinary research combining optics, computer science, experimental psychology and art.