PhD Scenario-based compositional system-level performance engineering Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology offers an exciting opportunity to advance scenario-based compositional system-level performance engineering for complex cyber-physical manufacturing equipment. Hosted by the Model-Based Design Lab in the Electronic Systems group, the research is part of a larger Design Automation program in collaboration with ASML, a leading industrial partner in the semiconductor industry. The program spans multiple departments, including Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science, and aims to push the boundaries of holistic system-level modeling, analysis, design, exploration, and synthesis.

The project addresses the limitations of current design automation solutions, which are often restricted to specific domains or subsystems. The goal is to develop methodologies that enable correct behavior (such as collision-free material handling) and required performance (throughput, latency) while considering constraints from various engineering domains, including form factor, costs, and thermal conditioning. The research will leverage scenario-based design, clustering system behaviors into scenarios, and will start from use cases and operating modes (normal and failure). This approach requires the development of domain-specific languages (DSLs) for specifying use cases, as well as model transformation, analysis, and synthesis algorithms to ensure functionally correct system configurations with guaranteed performance.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic and ambitious university with a strong international network and interdisciplinary setting. The position offers full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, including a competitive salary (scale P), year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, and allowances for commuting, working from home, and internet costs. International candidates benefit from a tax compensation scheme (30% facility) and support from the Staff Immigration Team.

Applicants must have a master’s degree in computer engineering, computer science, systems engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or applied mathematics. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, software engineering and algorithm development experience, and preferably DSL development experience are required. Candidates should be eager to work in an interdisciplinary team and possess excellent communication and collaboration skills. Fluency in spoken and written English (C1 level) is essential.

The university is located in Brainport Eindhoven, a world-leading tech region known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing. TU/e is home to a diverse and vibrant academic community, offering high-quality training programs, excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus childcare and sports facilities, and unlimited access to the TU/e Student Sports Center at an affordable rate.

To apply, submit a complete application online, including a cover letter, CV with publications, and contact information for three references. The application deadline is May 31, 2026. Incomplete applications may not be prioritized, and applications sent by email or post will not be processed. A pre-employment screening may be part of the selection procedure.

For further information, contact Dr. Marc Geilen ([email protected]) or Prof. Twan Basten ([email protected]). Additional details about the application process and working at TU/e can be found on the university’s website.