"Assistant Professor in Surface Interaction Design and Engineering"

Join us at the University of Twente, where cutting-edge research meets real-world impact. We are seeking a visionary Assistant Professor to pioneer new frontiers in Surface Interaction Design and Engineering - a field at the intersection of materials science, mechanical engineering, and human-centered design.

From smart coatings and tactile interfaces to micro-scale tribology and bio-inspired surfaces, your work will help redefine how materials behave, perform, and connect. If you're passionate about pushing boundaries, collaborating across disciplines, and mentoring the next generation of engineers and designers, we want to hear from you.

About the Position
As an Assistant Professor, you will be an integral team member of the vibrant, interdisciplinary Functional Surface Engineering and Design group within the MS3 department of the Faculty of Engineering Technology (https://www.utwente.nl/en/et/ms3/research-chairs/fused). You will help us drive innovation in surface interaction design. Building on the pillars of topology, materials and metrology, your research will span topics such as tribology, adhesion, wettability, micro/nano-engineering, and human-material interfaces. You’ll bridge fundamental science and applied engineering, contributing to solutions that impact industries ranging from healthcare and robotics to aerospace and consumer technology.

You are expected to contribute to and take responsibility for research and teaching development in the following ways:

• Develop your own research identity in surface interaction design and engineering.
• Deliver high-quality research and disseminate the results in high quality international refereed journals and conferences.
• Build relevant and necessary networks to attract external funding (national science foundation, EU, government and industry).
• Teach, inspire and supervise students in the Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering programmes at both Bachelor and Master levels.
• Supervise and mentor EngD and PhD researchers.
• Design and deliver engaging courses in English.

Requirements
We are looking for a candidate who combines scientific excellence with creativity and a collaborative spirit:

• A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Physics, or a related field.
• A strong publication record in surface interaction-related topics.
• Demonstrated potential to attract research funding.
• Experience with experimental and computational methods.
• Excellent communication skills and a passion for teaching.
• A willingness to obtain the Dutch University Teaching Qualification (UTQ), if not already acquired.
• Fluency in English (Dutch language proficiency is not required initially, but encouraged as a long-term goal).

Conditions of employment
A fulltime position for 1 year, with the prospect of a permanent position after a positive evaluation and unchanged operating conditions. A gross salary between € 4.728,- and € 6.433,- per month, depending on experience and qualifications. The salary is in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities. A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross salary annual salary, a year-end bonus of 8,3% and a solid pension scheme. A dynamic and supportive academic environment that values innovation and collaboration. Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and labs. A clear path for career development, including mentoring and leadership opportunities. A vibrant international community in one of Europe’s leading high-tech regions.

Additional information
Please submit your application before 31st of October 2025, including: A cover letter outlining your motivation and vision. Curriculum Vitae. Research and teaching statements. Names and contact information of at least three references. The dates of the first rounds interviews are planned between 6 and 14 November 2025. Screening is part of the selection procedure. Expected start date is on 1st of March, 2026, at the latest. For inquiries, please contact: Dr. David Matthews, Associate Professor Surface Design and Engineering, email: d.t.a.matthews@utwente.nl

High Tech and Human Touch
Join the university of technology that puts people first. Create new possibilities for yourself, your colleagues and society as a whole. Using modern technology and science to drive innovation, change and progress. That’s what it means to work at the University of Twente. Looking for a job that matters?