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Postdoc Position: Design and Manufacturing of Adaptive Winglets using Shape Memory Alloys

The Chairs of Advanced Manufacturing for Sustainable Products and Energy Systems (AMPSES) and Nonlinear Solid Mechanics (NSM), part of the Faculty of Engineering Technology at the University of Twente, invite applications for a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to a groundbreaking project on adaptive winglets using Shape Memory Alloys in aerospace applications.

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    Anouk Bomers

Key takeaways

  • Hours
    40 hr.
  • Salary indication
    Salary gross/monthly
    based on full-time
    € 3,059 - € 3,881
  • Deadline
    30 Sep 2025

Project overview

This project aims to revolutionize aircraft winglet design by developing morphing surfaces enabled by Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs). These adaptive winglets are designed to optimize aerodynamic performance by responding to temperature variations and incorporating active thermal control for real-time configuration adjustments. This hybrid passive-active system reduces dependence on traditional mechanical components, offering significant improvements in fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, and alignment with the aviation sector’s climate-neutral goals for 2050.

Your Role

As a postdoctoral researcher, your primary focus will be on experimental work related to the manufacturing and characterization of SMA components. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team from the UTwente, FIP, TU Delft, NLR, and other partners involved in research on the growth, properties, and implementation of these advanced materials.

Your profile

We are seeking candidates with:

  • A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience in metal additive manufacturing, particularly Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF).
  • Proficiency in material characterization techniques, such as DSC, SEM, EBSD, XRD, and other relevant mechanical and microstructural evaluation methods.
  • Hands-on experience in the post-processing and shape programming of SMAs.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage in international collaborative research.
  • A proactive and organized working style, able to manage multiple responsibilities.
  • A collaborative, creative, and problem-solving mindset.

Our offer

  • A full-time appointment for 2 years.
  • A competitive salary ranging from €4.241 to €5.538 gross per month, depending on qualifications and experience.
  • 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus
  • A minimum of 29 days of annual leave
  • Participation in a solid pension scheme
  • Access to extensive professional and personal development programs
  • An inspiring and dynamic research environment within an internationally recognized university.

Information and application

To apply, please submit your application before September 30, 2025, via the "Apply now" button. Your application must include:

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The intended start date is November/December 2025.

Contact Information

For more details, feel free to contact:

First-round interviews (online) will take place in October 2025.

Apply now

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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.

Want to know more

Mehrpouya, M. (Mehrshad)

Mehrpouya, M. (Mehrshad)
Assistant Professor

Mehrpouya, M. (Mehrshad)
Assistant Professor

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Mehrshad for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.

Contact

Phone:+31534898038
Email:m.mehrpouya@utwente.nl

How to apply

Step 1

Apply.
When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.

Apply now

Step 2

Selection.
The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.

Step 3

1st interview.
The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.

Step 4

2nd interview.
In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.

Step 5

The offer.
If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer. If applicable, we will sign you up for screening.

Your Colleagues

About The Faculty ET

Curious about what the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) stands for? Check out the ET website for more information.

Go to the ET website

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