PhD in Liquid Crystal Polymer Surfaces for Mechanical Haptics

We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate to develop a new generation of responsive polymer surfaces that can communicate through touch. The 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 interactive coatings that generate realistic tactile sensations for applications in human-machine interaction assistive technology virtual and augmented reality prosthetics and wearable devices.

In this PhD project you will focus on mechanical haptics using liquid crystal polymer and liquid crystal elastomer coatings. These materials can reversibly change their shape surface texture stiffness and adhesion in response to external triggers such as heat light or electric fields. You will design fabricate and characterize dynamic surfaces that form tactile features such as corrugations Braille-like patterns responsive fibres suction-inspired structures and switchable soft-hard interfaces.

The scientific challenge is to translate molecular-level changes in liquid crystal order into macroscopic surface responses that can be perceived by human touch. You will work at the interface of materials science polymer engineering soft matter physics and device-oriented prototyping.

You will:

• fabricate and optimize liquid crystal polymer coatings with programmable molecular alignment;
• develop responsive surface topographies fibres suction structures and modulus-changing coatings;
• investigate actuation by light heat and electric fields;
• quantify surface deformation switching speed stiffness friction adhesion and mechanical durability;
• collaborate with team members working on molecular synthesis chemical haptics electronics and perception studies;
• contribute to demonstrator devices for tactile displays and wearable haptic interfaces;
• publish your results in high-quality scientific journals and present them at international conferences.
  
  

• 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 fields:
  • materials science;
  • mechanical engineering;
  • chemical engineering;
  • polymer science;
  • soft matter physics;
  • applied physics;
  • microfabrication or surface engineering.
• Experience with liquid crystals polymers responsive materials microscopy mechanical testing 3D printing lithography or soft actuators is an advantage. We especially welcome candidates who enjoy hands-on experimental work and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• 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.