PhD in Chemical and Neurogenic Haptics Using Responsive Polymer Coatings

We are looking for an enthusiastic PhD candidate to develop chemical and neurogenic haptic interfaces based on responsive liquid crystal polymer coatings. This position is part of a Vici project entitled Beyond sight and sound: liquid crystal polymer-based tactile interfaces for the digital age. The project aims to create tactile technologies that go beyond conventional vibrations by generating programmable sensations such as texture softness adhesion warmth coolness and chemical cues.

In this PhD project you will focus on the controlled release and reabsorption of active compounds from porous liquid crystal polymer coatings. These coatings will act as dynamic reservoirs that can release molecules on demand when triggered by light heat or electric fields. Target sensations include cooling warming burning fragrance and other chemosensory effects relevant to human-machine interaction.

The project will explore compounds such as menthol capsaicin methyl salicylate and volatile molecules while developing material strategies to prevent premature release and enable repeatable localized and safe the later stage of the PhD you will combine chemical haptics with mechanical haptic functions such as topography changes fibres or suction-inspired structures.

You will:

• develop porous and nanostructured liquid crystal polymer coatings for controlled molecular release;
• load coatings with neurogenic thermosensory or olfactory trigger molecules;
• study light- heat- and electrically triggered release and reabsorption mechanisms;
• quantify release kinetics repeatability localization and material stability;
• develop strategies to prevent premature chemical leakage;
• combine chemical haptics with mechanical haptic structures;
• collaborate with researchers working on molecular synthesis mechanical haptics device integration and perception studies;
• contribute to publications conference presentations and demonstrator devices.

• A masters degree (or an equivalent university degree)in the areas below.
• We are looking for a candidate with a background in one or more of the following areas:
  • chemical engineering;
  • materials science;
  • polymer chemistry;
  • physical chemistry;
  • soft matter;
  • biomedical materials;
  • controlled release systems;
  • surface or coating technology.
• Experience with polymer networks porous materials responsive coatings liquid crystals drug delivery analytical chemistry or spectroscopy is an advantage. The ideal candidate is experimentally skilled creative safety-conscious and interested in developing materials that interact directly with human perception.
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
• Fluent in spoken and written English.
  
  

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful green campus within walking distance of the central train addition we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme paid pregnancy and maternity leave partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities scale P (min. 3059 - max. 3881 gross per month).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure on-campus childrens day care and sports facilities.
• Unlimited access to the modern oncampus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• An allowance for commuting working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13000 students and more than 7000 staff forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven a worldleading tech region with more than 7000 hightech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI photonics semiconductors and advanced manufacturing Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry bridges science and engineering to create sustainable solutions for society. By combining expertise in molecules materials and processes we drive innovations that address global challenges in energy circularity health and future technology. Through world-class research interdisciplinary collaboration and strong industry partnerships we educate engineers and scientists who turn scientific discoveries into technologies with lasting societal impact. Together we create chemistry for a better world.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more Please contact the hiring manager dr. Danqing Liu .

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contactEveline de Vetter HR Advisor .

Curious to hear more about what its like as a PhD candidate at TU/e Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e Please visit our career page.

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.