EngD in Innovative Sustainable Façade Design

Join the Building Lighting group at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) as an EngD trainee and contribute to the development of innovative sustainable façade solutions that address overheating and daylighting challenges in modern buildings. This two-year post-master technological designer program (Smart Buildings & Cities; SBC) offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of building engineering, architecture, and sustainability, focusing on the assessment and implementation of a new semitransparent, well-insulated sandwich façade element with integrated optical fibers. The EngD program is designed for candidates passionate about shaping sustainable cities, improving health and well-being, and tackling climate challenges through the built environment. As an EngD trainee, you will be embedded in the Building Lighting group within TU/e’s Department of the Built Environment and collaborate closely with Zospeum, a Dutch company pioneering translucent insulated façade elements. The project is part of the OPZuid consortium, which aims to enhance façade solutions, automate production processes, and achieve certifications such as LCA and materials passports. Your main responsibility will be to design and execute measurement campaigns at three Dutch sites—a prefab residential building, a utility building, and a renovation project. These campaigns will evaluate the thermal performance, daylighting, and energy consumption of the innovative façade elements. You will analyze the collected data, share insights with the project consortium, and publish findings in scientific outlets. The program combines post-master level education in design methods, entrepreneurship, and professional skills with hands-on project management and execution in collaboration with industry partners. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in building or architectural engineering or a related discipline, possess a strong interest in lighting engineering and energy savings, and demonstrate a technological design-oriented attitude. Teamwork and collaboration with industrial partners are essential, and fluency in English is required. Dutch language skills are advantageous but not mandatory. The position offers full-time employment for two years, a competitive salary (scale TOIO, €3,029/month), year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension scheme, paid parental leave, personal development opportunities, and allowances for commuting and internet costs. International candidates benefit from a dedicated Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme. To apply, submit a complete application online, including a cover letter, CV with publications and references, copies of relevant diplomas and transcripts, and English proficiency test results. The application deadline is 31 January 2026, with interviews and presentations for shortlisted candidates. The aim is to have the successful candidate start by 1 March 2026. For further information, contact Juliëtte van Duijnhoven, assistant professor in the Building Lighting group, at [email protected]. Become part of TU/e’s vibrant academic community and help shape the future of sustainable building design in an international, industry-connected environment.