The Eindhoven University of Technology invites applications for a PhD position focused on contract-based design of complex dynamical systems. This opportunity is situated within the Dynamics and Control section of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, a vibrant research community dedicated to advancing intelligent autonomous systems for industry and society. The research aims to develop novel tools based on contract-based system theory to automate and refine the translation of system-level requirements into module specifications, addressing challenges in high-tech domains such as semiconductor machines and robotics.

As a PhD candidate, you will join a team of four PhD students collaborating across Eindhoven University of Technology and University of Groningen. The project involves analyzing system-level dynamics-related requirements in both time and frequency domains, with a particular focus on second-order structural dynamics systems with nonlinearities, commonly found in mechatronic and robotic applications. You will have the opportunity to work with four high-tech companies in chip manufacturing and robotics, applying your research in an industrial context and building a strong academic and industrial profile.

The Dynamics and Control Section offers access to graduate courses at the Dutch Institute of Systems and Control (DISC) and the Engineering Mechanics Research School (EM), as well as collaboration opportunities with industry in the Brainport region and academic researchers worldwide. The section comprises over 60 researchers, including faculty, postdocs, and PhD students, working on diverse topics in dynamical systems and control.

This position is jointly supervised by Professor Nathan van de Wouw (Eindhoven University of Technology) and Dr. Bart Besselink (University of Groningen). Applicants should have a master’s degree in systems and control, mechanical engineering, or applied mathematics, with a strong background in dynamical systems and control theory. Affinity with mechatronics or robotics, proficiency in Matlab or Python, and fluency in English are required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and have a keen interest in complex dynamical systems.

Employment is full-time for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. The position includes teaching responsibilities (10–15% of employment), a competitive salary (scale P: €3,059–€3,881/month), year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension scheme, paid parental leave, commuting and home working allowances, technical infrastructure, sports facilities, on-campus childcare, and support for international candidates (including the 30% tax facility). The university offers high-quality training programs and encourages self-directed learning and professional growth.

To apply, submit a complete application online, including a cover letter, CV with publications and references, explanation of research interest, diplomas and transcripts, and a brief description of your MSc thesis or relevant projects. The vacancy remains open until filled, with priority given to complete applications. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed. For further information, contact Professor Nathan van de Wouw at [email protected] or visit his academic page.

Join Eindhoven University of Technology, a leading international institution in the Brainport region, and contribute to cutting-edge research in contract-based design of complex dynamical systems.