Postdoc position: 3D-printing of polymer foams drones; resin formulation

Job description

In the context of a NWO-KIC grant “Materials for defense”, we will investigate fluidic/chemical routes enabling a new generation of porous, graded, and composite materials. We are assembling a team of excellent and highly motivated scientists, who will together investigate and advance the fluid mechanics, the resin formulation, the mechanical properties, and process integration during Direct Bubble Writing. This novel additive manufacturing process for polymer foams was recently invented and patented by the University of Twente.

The team will closely interact with ten project partners, including National Dutch Research Institutes (NLR and MARIN), the Ministry of Defense, and globally leading industry partners specializing in the chemistry, the methods (design, printing, composites), or key applications (sailing/flying drones). In the final stage of the project, the printed materials will be tested in unmanned airborne/seaborne vehicles.

We are looking for a chemist/chemical engineer/materials scientist (4-year Post‑doc; this vacancy), leading the formulation challenges of the foam printing resins. You will focus on formulating resins (rather than synthesis), enabling e.g. printing of stiff, light, and dampening parts with minimal post‑processing. An understanding of photo‑curable systems, resin formulation, fluid mechanics, and/or soft matter is beneficial. The position is hosted at the University of Twente, starting 1 Jan 2027 or as soon as possible after that date.

You will closely collaborate with two PhD/PD‑level team members who will (1) lead the understanding and development of the fluidic print process, and (2) lead the integration of printed foams with composites and subsequent upscaling. Together, you will fundamentally change how foams are made:
From uniform blocks to precisely graded materials at cell level. Based on this understanding, the team will systematically develop methods for integration, scaling, and application of advanced foams and composites.

We seek motivated colleagues who are excited about the scientific, engineering, and collaborative aspects of the project. Ideally, your CV reflects excellent scientific results, an interest broader than your PhD program, and the ability to deliver results with a team. Specifically:

• You are an enthusiastic and highly motivated researcher;
• You have obtained a PhD degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science.
• You have excellent analytical skills and a strong ability for solution-oriented problem solving.
• You have strong interests in additive manufacturing, including connecting the fundamental and applied aspects.
• You have experience in (micro) materials characterization, chemical characterization, and/or material visualization techniques. Experience in e.g. resin formulation, microfluidics, and advanced optical analysis techniques are considered as a benefit.
• You possess excellent communication skills, including scientific writing and presenting to a specialized or general audience.
• You enjoy working in a team.
• You have a creative and critical attitude, combined with perseverance and being flexible.
• You are fluent in English and preferably also in Dutch.

We offer the following:

• You will be appointed for a period of maximum 4 years full‑time within a stimulating scientific environment. The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO‑NU);
• Gross salary between € 4.422,- (step
  4) and € 5.760,- (step 12) per month depending on experience and qualifications;
• Excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual…