Job description
The project
Additive Manufacturing has opened new frontiers in medical device engineering. Yet, the full integration of design with the unique constraints and possibilities of AM is still evolving. The OPTIMA project, funded by High Tech Systems and Materials (HTSM), addresses this challenge by developing an advanced design framework that tightly couples simulation, experimental validation, and predictive modeling.
OPTIMA aims to create a robust design-to-manufacture pipeline for high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective medical implants. By integrating process-aware optimization techniques early in the design phase, the project will improve virtual testing capabilities, streamline the manufacturing workflow, and accelerate the clinical adoption of implants produced via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) technology.
Your role
Your focus will be on modeling and simulation, with a strong emphasis on ensuring the manufacturability, microstructural quality, and functional performance of 3D-printed medical implants.
You will work closely with interdisciplinary experts from academia and industry, gaining experience in applied research, simulation-driven design, advanced characterization, and project management. You will also contribute to scientific publications and the dissemination of project results.
Your profile
- A Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
- Proven experience with metal 3D printing, preferably the LPBF process.
- Familiarity with material characterization methods, including microstructural and mechanical property evaluation.
- Strong background in FEM modeling and simulation, particularly in the design of architected structures for biomedical applications.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage an international research audience.
- A proactive mindset, capable of managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines in a dynamic environment.
- A collaborative and creative approach to research challenges.
Our offer
- Full-time 2-year EngD position with a tailor-made post-master design program that has an educational component (50%) as well as a design project (50%).
- Access to a dynamic, high-quality, and collaborative research environment equipped with state-of-the-art facilities at the forefront of additive manufacturing research.
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth within the interdisciplinary field of additive manufacturing and smart materials.
- Excellent working conditions in an exciting scientific environment, set in a green and lively campus.
- Dedicated mentorship and access to top-notch facilities.
- Inclusion in a professional and personal development program within Graduate School Twente.
- A salary of €2.872,- gross per month
- Holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.
- Minimum of 29 holidays per year for full-time employment.
- Full employee status at the University of Twente, including pension and healthcare benefits.
Information and application
Please submit your application before May 9, 2025, using the "Apply now" button, and include the following:
- A Curriculum Vitae, including contact details of two references.
- Bachelor's and Master's transcripts.
- Title and abstract of your Master's project/thesis.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL).
- A 1-minute video explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this position.
The intended starting date is June/July 2025 (depending on what is possible due to the visa application).
For additional information about this position, you can contact Dr. Mehrshad Mehrpouya at [email protected].
About the organisation
The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.
