Summary
The Integrated Devices & Systems (IDS) and Engineering Dynamics (ED) groups at the University of Twente are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate. The researcher will experiment with ultrasound waves inside a tube to determine the properties of liquids, with a specific focus on viscosity. This project is funded by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) and is a collaborative effort involving two technical universities and two flow sensor companies to develop a new commercial industrial sensor.
PhD Position: Viscosity Sensing of a Liquid Using Ultrasound, University of Twente, Netherlands
Key Position Details
| Category | Details |
| Designation | PhD Candidate |
| Research Area | Ultrasound waves, fluid properties, viscosity sensing, electrical/mechanical engineering, applied physics |
| Location | University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands (with partial work at Bronkhorst High-Tech BV in Ruurlo, NL) |
| Employment Type | Full-time (40 hours/week, 4-year appointment with a qualifier in the first year) |
| Gross Monthly Salary | €3,059 (1st year) to €3,881 (4th year) |
| Application Deadline | August 16, 2026 |
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Degree: Must hold an MSc degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or Materials Science.
- Skills: A strong passion for conducting practical experiments and analyzing signals.
- Language: Fluent in written and spoken English.
- Traits: High motivation, enthusiastic research approach, excellent team spirit, and comfort working in an international, interdisciplinary environment.
Job Description
- Experimental Focus: Design and set up experimental rigs, produce and analyze ultrasound signals across varied sensor configurations, and map these signals to specific liquid properties.
- Product Development: Collaborate with a broader team to advance an existing commercial ultrasound flow sensor so it can automatically monitor liquid quality and detect composition changes.
- Teaching Responsibilities: Dedicate 10% to 20% of your time to support various teaching activities within your field of expertise.
- Academic Progression: Participate in a structured training program via the Twente Graduate School.
Benefits & Offer
- Full alignment with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
- 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- A solid pension scheme and a minimum of 232 leave hours per year (plus 96 extra leave hours due to the 40-hour actual workweek).
- Flexibility to work partially from home, alongside free access to campus sports facilities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application before August 17, 2026, by clicking the “Apply Now” button on the official vacancy page.
Your application package must include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including a comprehensive list of all courses attended, grades obtained, and references/publications (if applicable).
- Cover Letter: A maximum of 2 pages (A4) detailing your specific interest, qualifications, and core motivations for this role.
For specific substantive questions about the position, you can contact the department via the official University of Twente Vacancy Page.
