"EngD Position – Design of Polymer-Metal Interfaces for Low Friction Tribological Contacts"

Polymer-metal contacts are widely used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial machinery. However, achieving low friction and high durability remains a challenge due to complex interfacial phenomena.

This project aims to develop innovative surface treatments and interface designs that reduce friction and wear in high pressure mechanical systems, contributing to energy efficiency and extended component lifetimes.

Your Role

This EngD project will explore:

• Materials and surface modification techniques for metals and high-end polymers to reduce friction and wear under high contact pressures.
• Tribological testing under various environmental and loading conditions.
• Modeling and simulation of interfacial behavior.
• Integration of experimental and computational insights into design guidelines.

The project will be carried out in close collaboration with industrial partners and will include a strong design and application-oriented component, in line with the EngD philosophy.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in tribology, surface engineering, or polymer science.
• Experience with experimental techniques (e.g., tribometers, microscopy) and/or simulation tools (e.g., FEM, molecular dynamics) is a plus.
• 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.
• Fluent in English (spoken and written).

Conditions of employment

• Contract for two years (fulltime) in a Engineering Doctorate (EngD)- position
• Salary of € 3.029,- gross per month
• Annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• Minimum of 29 holidays per year
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities.
• Supervision by leading experts in tribology and surface technology.
• A tailored professional development program including courses, workshops, and industry exposure.
• A recognized EngD degree upon successful completion. You will be registered as a Technological Designer in the Dutch register kept by the Royal Institution of Engineers in the Netherlands (KIVI).
• A work environment on a green and lively campus with sports and leisure facilities;

Additional information

Please submit your application by using the “Apply Now” button - before 3rd of November 2025 - including: A motivation letter, Curriculum Vitae, Academic transcripts, Contact details of two references. A screening will be part of the selection process. For more information, you can contact Dr. D.T.A. Matthews, email: d.t.a.matthews@utwente.nl. First interviews will take place between 10 and 28 November 2025.