At the University of Twente, you will further develop and lead research on the dynamic behaviour of structures and systems, contribute to our courses in Dynamics, and build a strong research and education team within an internationally oriented academic environment.
Job description
As a Full Professor, you will take academic leadership in Engineering Dynamics, with a focus on the theoretical description and experimental work on the dynamic behaviour of structures and systems. This in close cooperation with external partners, such as other academia, industry and governments. You have an inspiring vision on engineering themes in dynamics, highlighting the interaction of mechanical systems. Experimental validation and advanced measurement techniques, along with mathematical modelling approaches for dynamical systems are key areas of interest. You could give special attention to meso-scale applications, design challenges, interface problems, and the long-term behaviour of mechanical systems.
You will contribute to fostering a link between research and education and attract BSc and MSc students by implementation of results from research. Your vision on teaching Dynamics includes also a thorough vision on Life Long Learning initiatives, contributing to the education of the engineers of the future.
You will lead the Engineering Dynamics group ensuring its academic, financial and human resource viability and sustainability, working closely with your colleagues. You will actively acquire and carry out research projects with academic and industrial partners, supervise PhD candidates, MSc students and junior staff. You will participate in the overall management of the Department of MS3 and contribute to the research strategy of the faculty ET and to improving the educational programs Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering of the faculty ET.
Information and application
For more information about this position, please contact prof.dr.ir. E. van der Heide, Head of the Department of MS3, by email e.vanderheide@utwente.nl.
Please submit your application before April 19th 2026, including:
- A motivation letter outlining your vision on Engineering Dynamics;
- A detailed CV;
- A list of publications including your role in the research presented there;
- A concise statement on your research ambitions;
- A concise statement on your teaching philosophy including Life Long Learning ambitions;
- Names and contact details of three references.
The first (online) job interviews will take place in May.
Screening can be part of the procedure.
About the department
About the Department MS3
Research and education within the Department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces & Systems (MS3) address the scientific and engineering aspects of the strongly related “triangle” of (i) material (behaviour), (ii) production and (iii) products, where ultimately the performance of all aspects is of crucial importance. Applied Mechanics forms the backbone of the department since its founding in 2013, and is the central fundamental pillar of the department for the future. The newly founded chair of Engineering Dynamics, is part of that fundamental pillar.
The chair of Engineering Dynamics builds further on a strong departmental track record in structural dynamics and vibrations. Serving a broad palette of applications, the core of the expertise is in the theoretical description and in the experimental work on the dynamical behaviour of structures and systems. Focus is on developing reduced order models for systems such as found in robotics, space and rail applications, as well as on the modelling of structural loads for mechanical structures and systems. Innovative experimental work involves measuring and modelling the vibrational responses of structures and systems. The departments’ multiannual plan stresses the importance of the relation with industry and specifically of the relation with manufacturing technology. MS3 would like to strengthen this further by emphasising the importance of the link between materials properties, production technology and functionality in an engineering dynamical or applied mechanical context.
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.
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