Summary
Are you passionate about realizing the next generation of 3D-printed foams and composites? The University of Twente is seeking a highly motivated Postdoc for a 4-year position to lead the resin formulation challenges for 3D-printing polymer foams, specifically for drone applications. This role is part of a larger NWO-KIC grant project focused on developing novel porous, graded, and composite materials through Direct Bubble Writing, a patented additive manufacturing process.
4-year Postdoc Position: 3D-Printing of Polymer Foams for Drones (Resin Formulation)
Designation
Postdoc Researcher
Research Area
- Additive Manufacturing of Polymer Foams
- Resin Formulation (Photo-curable systems)
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Fluid Mechanics
- Soft Matter
- Lightweight Materials for Drones and Composites
Location
University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification
Required:
- PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science.
- Excellent analytical skills and strong ability for solution-oriented problem-solving.
- Strong interest in additive manufacturing, connecting fundamental and applied aspects.
- Experience in (micro)materials characterization, chemical characterization, and/or material visualization techniques.
- Excellent communication skills, including scientific writing and presenting.
- Ability to work effectively in a team.
- Creative and critical attitude, combined with perseverance and flexibility.
- Fluent in English.
Beneficial:
- Understanding of photo-curable systems, resin formulation, fluid mechanics, and/or soft matter.
- Experience in microfluidics and advanced optical analysis techniques.
- Proficiency in Dutch.
Job Description
This 4-year Postdoc position focuses on the formulation of resins for the 3D-printing of polymer foams. The successful candidate will be a chemist, chemical engineer, or materials scientist, primarily focusing on resin formulation rather than synthesis. The goal is to develop resins that enable the printing of stiff, light, and dampening parts with minimal post-processing. This position is part of a team of three scientists investigating and advancing fluid mechanics, resin formulation, mechanical properties, and process integration during Direct Bubble Writing – a novel additive manufacturing process for polymer foams.
You will collaborate closely with two other team members who will focus on the fluidic print process and the integration of printed foams with composites. The project aims to fundamentally change how foams are made, moving from uniform blocks to precisely graded materials at a cellular level. The printed materials will be tested in unmanned airborne/seaborne vehicles in the final stage of the project. The team will interact with ten project partners, including National Dutch Research Institutes (NLR and MARIN), the Ministry of Defense, and leading industry partners.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their application via the ‘Apply now’ button (link provided below) before the deadline. The application should include:
- A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4) emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, and motivations for applying.
- A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications and references.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL).
- Contact details of at least two references.
For more information, please contact Prof. dr. ir. Claas Willem Visser at c.visser@utwente.nl.
Last Date for Apply
October 31, 2026
Apply Link
