Philipp Rothemund

PhD position available in soft robotics at the University of Stuttgart in the research group of Philipp Rothemund , Tenure Track Professor. This opportunity is aimed at candidates interested in robotics research with likely connections to mechanical engineering and materials science, especially topics related to soft robotic systems, actuators, and compliant structures. The post states that full information about the position and application process is available via the linked page. No deadline, funding details, or specific eligibility requirements were included in the post text provided. Interested applicants should review the linked announcement carefully and follow the instructions on the application page.

Philipp Rothemund (University Professor at the University of Stuttgart) is hiring PhD students for a new group at connAIx in Heilbronn, affiliated with the University of Stuttgart. The research focus is on soft robotics , materials science , and embodied AI / physical AI . The group studies how a robot’s body can contribute to intelligence by integrating actuation, sensing, control, and learning. Possible topics include functional soft materials, artificial muscles, integrated sensing, physical intelligence through material properties and body dynamics, physics-based and data-driven models for co-designing robotic bodies and control, soft robotic systems for manipulation and wearable devices, biomedical applications, and additive manufacturing of functional soft structures. The positions are fully funded and remunerated according to TV-L E13 . The post highlights an interdisciplinary, international environment and the opportunity to help shape a new research group and its culture. Relevant backgrounds include mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, robotics, control, machine learning, and related fields. Applications can be submitted via the International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) by 15 November 2026 , or directly by email with a single PDF containing a motivation letter, CV with referee contacts, and transcript of records. Direct applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. Intended start date: 2027.