Postdoc: Chemically Driven Robotic Actuators & Soft Hands

University of Groningen via AcademicTransfer; Netherlands; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Year-end bonus

Holiday allowance

Job summary

University of Groningen seeks a highly skilled material scientist and mechanical engineer to pioneer chemically-driven robotics. In a 2-year project, you will develop innervated soft robotic hands and study how chemical signals translate into motion, working with mechanochemistry, materials, and actuator design experts.

You will lead design, modelling, prototyping, and supervision of PhD and undergraduate students, contributing to high-impact research and publications in a collaborative lab

Qualifications

• PhD in mechanical engineering, materials science, or equivalent.
• Track record in designing metamaterials and actuators with modelling support.
• Strong design, project management, and communication skills; independent, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary work.

Responsibilities

• Design robotic components and actuators that respond to chemical signals.
• Optimize geometries and model deformations to match chemical timescales.
• Develop robotic prototypes with microfluidic channels.
• Build and maintain chemical and robotic setups.
• Train and supervise students.
• Excel in a top chemistry group with strong infrastructure.

Skills

Metamaterial design

Actuator design

Modelling

Project management

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in mechanical engineering or materials science

Tools

Modelling software

Job description

University of Groningen seeks a highly skilled material scientist and mechanical engineer to pioneer chemically-driven robotics. In a 2-year project, you will develop innervated soft robotic hands and study how chemical signals translate into motion, working with mechanochemistry, materials, and actuator design experts.

You will lead design, modelling, prototyping, and supervision of PhD and undergraduate students, contributing to high-impact research and publications in a collaborative lab