EngD Position in Advanced Multifunctional Geopolymer-Based Coatings
Advanced multifunctional coatings are becoming increasingly important for demanding applications, but many existing systems are complex, difficult to repair, environmentally unfriendly, and dependent on critical or non-European raw materials. This EngD project addresses this challenge by developing a more sustainable, repairable, and locally producible coating system that can be applied using conventional coating techniques and validated under relevant conditions.
The project focuses on Polycondensed Mineral Technology (PMT), a circular, mineral-based coating platform developed by Materialz (company). PMT coatings already show promising properties, including heat resistance, corrosion protection, repairability, and circularity. This project aims to further develop these coatings into advanced multifunctional systems with potential for radio-frequency and infrared signature reduction, while maintaining strong adhesion, durability, scalability, and practical applicability.
Your Role
The position will be based at the University of Twente, where the candidate will carry out most of the work, follow relevant courses, and receive scientific support. The project will be conducted in close collaboration with the industrial partner Materialz and relevant stakeholders in advanced coating technologies. The candidate will contribute to the design, development and analysis of PMT-based multifunctional coatings, with a focus on coating formulation and application, surface and interface engineering, adhesion and durability assessment, and demonstrator development with project partners.
Information and application
To apply for this EngD. research position, you can apply by August 16, 2026, by clicking the ‘apply now’ button below.
Please include:
- A cover letter (maximum one A4 page) detailing your specific research interests, motivation for applying, and why you are a strong candidate for this position.
- An updated CV, including contact details for at least two academic references.
- Applicants who have not completed both their secondary and tertiary education in English are required to provide official documentation of their language skills. The University of Twente accepts the following English-language tests as proof of proficiency: an academic IELTS test with a minimum overall band score of 6.5, a TOEFL iBT score of at least 90, or a Cambridge English certificate at the CAE-C.
- Copies of your academic transcripts from both your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
- Title and abstract of your Master’s thesis/project.
- Any additional supporting documents, such as publications or research experience.
Please ensure your application is submitted before the deadline via the online system. The applications that do not include all required materials will not be considered.
If you have any questions about the EngD. vacation, please get in touch with Prof. Matthijn de Rooij at m.b.derooij@utwente.nl
Screening will The first round of interviews is scheduled to take place in week 34-35.
Screening will be part of the selection.
About the organisation
At the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET), we work on engineering for impact: developing smart, sustainable, human-centred and technological solutions for societal challenges. We connect fundamental education, research and practice across five core domains: Asset & Maintenance engineering, Intelligent Manufacturing Systems, Personalised Health Technology, Resilience Engineering, and Sustainable Production, Energy and Resources.
We work on education and research in mechanical engineering, civil engineering and industrial design engineering. Together, we learn by making, creating, and innovating, addressing challenges in a solution-oriented way. Quality, connection and inclusivity are the foundation of our culture.
In our open community, students, researchers and staff collaborate with industrial and societal partners. This enables us to develop insights, applications and solutions that add value to society.
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