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 and integral team member of the vibrant, interdisciplinary Funcitonal 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.
Information and application
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
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
