Junior researcher

Research technician, 3D printing upcycled biomaterials

TU Delft’s department of sustainable design engineering is in search of a research assistant/technician for sustainable additive manufacturing (green 3D printing) for a contract of 1.5‑2 years. The role involves ambient temperature extrusion of upcycled biomaterials (DIW) to replace traditional melted plastic extrusion (FFF/FDM) as described in

• Mix and 3D print different material recipes, including sawdust, oyster shells, microcrystalline cellulose, alginate, water glass, xanthan gum, starch, lignin, and many more.
• Experiment with different printer settings, slicing, and even software/hardware modifications as needed.
• Measure the success of materials and printer settings by testing printed part strength, dimensional accuracy, overhang angle, bridging length, surface finish, and aesthetic factors.
• Print eye‑catching and useful objects to demonstrate the potential for commercial applications replacing plastics.

Candidates must have extensive experience with desktop 3D printing, especially modifying G‑code, firmware, and slicer settings. Candidates should ideally have experience with DIW of upcycled materials, including a portfolio of prints and different materials they have printed with; or at least some experience mixing and making biomaterials. Knowledge of chemistry or materials science is a bonus. Any level of formal education is considered.

Preference is given to candidates already near Delft, Netherlands, but relocation to Delft could be considered for a rock star candidate.

• Duration of contract: 1.5 years (temporary)
• Full‑time equivalent: 32‑40 hours per week.
• Salary based on Scale 08 of the CAO for Dutch Universities – €3 382 – 4 484 gross per month (38 h), plus 8 % holiday allowance and an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3 %.
• Excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• Possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• 232 leave hours annually (based on 38 h); hours can be sold or bought via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training, and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave.
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant, and the world more just.