PhD in Multifunctional Polymer Composites for Electromagnetic Shielding and Impact-Resistant Panels Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

Technische Universiteit Eindhoven (TU/e) is offering 2 PhD positions in Multifunctional Polymer Composites within the interdisciplinary VALOR project. The research aims to develop lightweight 3D-printed composite panels that can both shield electronics from electromagnetic threats and withstand impact events, with applications in defense platforms such as naval ships, drones, and military vehicles.

The project combines two tightly linked research tracks. PhD 1 focuses on mechanics and manufacturing: 3D printing nanocomposite lattice materials, fabricating composite facesheets, mechanical testing, and validating mechanical finite element models. PhD 2 focuses on electromagnetic testing and design: polymer nanocomposite formulation, electromagnetic characterization, absorbing architected structures, and electromagnetic shielding simulations. Both candidates will work experimentally and numerically, and collaborate with industrial partners in the consortium.

You will join the Processing and Performance of Materials section in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at TU/e in Eindhoven, Netherlands. The group works on the links between processing, structure, and properties in polymers and polymer-based composites, and offers access to advanced rheology, polymer processing, additive manufacturing, mechanical testing, and computational facilities.

Eligibility highlights: PhD 1 requires a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with excellent grades and specialization in mechanics of materials or solid mechanics. PhD 2 requires a master’s degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or Applied Physics with excellent grades and a materials specialization. For both positions, strong English skills at C1 level, a research-oriented mindset, and interest in interdisciplinary work are required; experience with mechanical characterization, FEM, 3D printing, polymer processing, electromagnetic measurements, or full-wave simulations is a plus.

Funding and conditions: These are full-time PhD employment positions for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. Salary is in Dutch university scale P, from €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month (full-time), plus an 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus. Additional benefits include pension, leave, training, commuting/work-from-home support, and international staff assistance.

Application deadline: 22 November 2026. Apply online through the vacancy page and upload a cover letter, CV with publications and three references, and a complete overview of bachelor’s and master’s grades. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed.