Summary
The Surgical Robotics Laboratory at the University of Twente, The Netherlands, is offering several PhD positions for doctoral candidates. This scholarship focuses on developing surgical micro-robotic devices, with an emphasis on micro- and nano-fabrication and optical technologies for sensing, actuation, and control in medical applications.
Designation
PhD Candidate
Key Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Hours | 38 hr. (Full-time) |
| Salary Indication (gross/monthly) | €3,204 – €4,051 |
| Contract Duration | 4 years |
Research Area
This PhD project is centered on soft continuum robotics and micro-/nano-robotics for medical applications. Key aspects include:
- Development of surgical micro-robotic devices.
- Micro- and nano-fabrication techniques.
- Optical technologies for sensing, actuation, and control.
- Design, fabrication, and experimental validation of micro-scale robotic platforms.
- Integration of optical and imaging-based feedback.
- Development of modeling and control strategies for complex biological environments.
- Scalable fabrication and integration of photonic sensing or actuation.
The project will be conducted within the Surgical Robotics Laboratory and the Department of Biomechanical Engineering, in collaboration with the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and clinical/international partners.
Location
University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants should possess:
- A Master’s degree in applied physics, nanotechnology, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline.
- A strong background in micro-scale systems or robotics.
- Experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Optical sensing, photonics, or light-based micro-scale actuation.
- Micro- and nano-fabrication (e.g., lithography, thin-film processing, MEMS, micro-assembly).
- Modeling and control of micro-robotic or compliant robotic systems.
- Integration of miniaturized sensing and actuation systems for biomedical or robotic applications.
- Experience combining optical technologies with micro-fabrication or robotics is an advantage.
Scholarship Description
The University of Twente offers a comprehensive package for this 4-year PhD position, including:
- A full-time 4-year PhD position.
- Excellent mentorship and a stimulating international research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.
- A professional and personal development program within Graduate School Twente.
- A starting salary of €3,204 gross per month in the first year, increasing to €4,051 gross per month in the fourth year.
- A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary.
- A year-end bonus of 8.3%.
- A solid pension scheme.
- A minimum of 29 holidays per year for full-time employment.
The University of Twente provides a dynamic and international environment, combining academic research with industrial relevance, excellent working conditions, and a vibrant campus.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please follow these steps:
- Click the ‘Apply now’ button on the original vacancy page.
- Include your CV, which should contain contact information for at least two academic references.
- Provide the title and abstract of your Master’s project/thesis.
Interviews will take place approximately 4 weeks after your application. Screening is part of the procedure.
For more information, you may contact Prof. Sarthak Misra at s.misra@utwente.nl.
Last Date for Apply
30 September 2026
