Assistant Professor in Dynamics and Computational Design of High-Tech Systems

Would you like to be part of a vibrant and collaborative academic community, contributing to innovations with real-world relevance? Join us in shaping the future of 'dynamics & control' in the heart of the high-tech region of the Netherlands! The Dynamics and Control section of the Mechanical Engineering department at Eindhoven University of Technology is seeking a passionate and talented Assistant Professor to expand its team.

The department of Mechanical Engineering

The department of Mechanical Engineering conducts world-class research that closely aligns with the technological needs of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands. We are deeply embedded in the Brainport Eindhoven ecosystem, enabling our staff and students to contribute directly to the development of technological breakthroughs with real-world relevance. With a strong track record of successful spinoffs and active participation in numerous national and international research consortia, we offer a dynamic environment where science meets applications.

By offering a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects, we aim to develop engineers who are both scientifically educated and application driven. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

The Dynamics and Control section

The mission of the Dynamics and Control (D&C) section is to perform research and train next-generation students on the topic of understanding and predicting the dynamics of complex engineering systems to develop advanced control, estimation, planning, and learning strategies which are at the core of the intelligent autonomous systems of the future: 'designing and realizing smart autonomous systems for industry and society’.

High-tech and cyber-physical systems, autonomous articulated vehicles, fully automated industrial value chains, smart energy systems, intelligent medical devices, automated transportation networks, and soft robotics are key examples of the broad application domain of the D&C section. The design of these systems requires a thorough understanding of their underlying dynamics. Therefore, the first focal point of our research is on both data-based and first-principle- based modeling, model complexity management, (computational/experimental) dynamic analysis, and design of complex multi-physics, multi-disciplinary, and cyber-physical engineering systems.

Building on this foundation, our second focal point is “making autonomous systems smarter”. To this end, we develop both model- and data-based sensing, planning, diagnostics, and control technologies as well as computational and experimental methods to provide autonomous systems with the intelligence needed to guarantee performance, robustness, safety, security, and sustainability.

The section brings together a diverse and committed team of nineteen scientific and teaching staff members, along with approximately forty PhD researchers and postdoctoral fellows. Together, they are organized into five closely interacting groups:

• Autonomous and Complex Systems
• Computational Dynamics
• Vehicle Dynamics and Control
• (Vibro)-Acoustics and Noise Control
• Autonomous Matter and Machines

By combining research in both dynamics and control theory within a single section, we are uniquely positioned to address societal and industrial challenges from an integrated perspective. This synergy enables us to educate highly skilled engineers and researchers with a distinctive interdisciplinary profile.

 Our section shares three labs with other research sections in the departments: the Dynamics and Control Technology (DCT) lab, the Automotive Technology lab, and the Robotics lab.

The Position

Research themes of the candidate

High-tech systems in the Brainport region are rapidly increasing in complexity, challenging traditional sequential and discipline-separated design approaches. Addressing this complexity requires integrated frameworks that combine modeling, simulation, control, and optimization to enable automated, scalable, and high-performance system design.

The candidate is expected to have a strong computational profile, complemented by expertise in dynamics and/or optimization. The research should contribute to the development of next-generation methodologies from an integrated co-design perspective, bridging mechanical system design and control.

We are looking for a candidate who will strengthen our section in at least one of these research themes:

1. Integrated Design Optimization of Mechatronic Systems

This topic aims to move beyond the traditional separation between mechanical system design and control engineering by adopting fully integrated co-design methodologies. System-level specifications serve as the starting point for the simultaneous optimization of system architecture, including structural components, actuator and sensor placement, and control strategies.

The objective is to establish tightly coupled design workflows that enable efficient development of high-performance mechatronic systems, improving both performance and development speed while reducing iteration cycles.

2. Generative AI for Automated System Design

This topic explores the use of generative AI to enhance and partially automate engineering design processes. By combining data-driven methods with physics-based modeling, these approaches enable rapid exploration of design spaces and the discovery of novel system configurations. The focus is on developing hybrid frameworks that integrate machine learning with first-principles models to support intelligent and automated design of high-performance systems.

3. High-Performance Computational Methods for Dynamical Systems

This topic explores the development of computationally efficient and accurate methods for simulation and optimization of complex dynamical systems. The focus is on hierarchical approaches bridging low- and high-fidelity representations, reduced-order and surrogate techniques, and hybrid physics-based and data-driven methods for (multi-physical) dynamical systems. The work emphasizes real-time capable simulation and scalable computational frameworks, leveraging advanced parallelization strategies on CPU and GPU architectures to enable large-scale system analysis and integrated co-design.

The section aims to attract outstanding and ambitious researchers who can strengthen existing activities and develop new interdisciplinary directions in dynamics and control. In addition to the targeted profile, excellent candidates with a strong computational background aligned with the broader D&C themes are also welcome to apply.

Responsibilities

•  You will develop internationally leading research and make significant contributions to high-impact journals.
• You will be responsible for setting up and driving your own independent research program by writing research proposals to acquire public and private funding. You will also lead or contribute to initiating and coordinating multidisciplinary research projects with diverse (external) funding sources.
• You will contribute or lead to the development of the Mechanical Engineering Bachelor's and Master's teaching programs, and you will teach lectures/tutorials at both levels. TU/e supports its junior scientific staff in developing their teaching skills through a training program that leads to the University Teaching Qualification, an official certification from Dutch Universities.
• You will supervise and mentor BSc, MSc, EngD and PhD students during their research projects and internships. Your mentorship will empower the next generation of engineers.
• You will actively stimulate the valorization of your research in industry and society.
• You will contribute to the success of the research group, department, and associated institutes by initiating, participating, or leading new internal and external collaborations.

In this role, you will contribute to the ambition of the Beethoven program to educate top talent and strengthen research across the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Job Requirements

• PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Applied Mathematics in the field of dynamical systems and control.
• You have a strong computational profile with proven experience in one of the three above-mentioned (or related) research topics.
• You have knowledge or expertise in application domains closely related to mechanical engineering, such as mechatronics, high-tech systems, cyber-physical systems, automotive systems, transportation systems, healthcare applications, smart industry, and energy systems. This is particularly important for candidates with a background outside the mechanical engineering domain.
• Ability to conduct high-quality academic research, reflected in demonstratable outputs.
• Motivated and/or ability to teach, contribute to teaching processes, and develop excellent teaching skills.
• The societal and industrial valorization of your research is an important driver for you.
• You have an interest in strengthening industrial collaborations within the Brainport area, nationally and internationally.
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.
• Effective communication and leadership skills, including the ability to coach and mentor students and staff, lead projects or chair groups.
• Excellent proficiency in English, both written and verbal.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale11. (min. €4.728,- max. €6.433,- gross per month).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• A start-up package is available to support hiring a PhD student to kickstart your research, covering the associated salary costs for four years.
• The possibility of an immediate tenured position for candidates who present a demonstrably qualified profile and possess at least two years of relevant experience following their PhD.
• A dedicated mentoring program to help you get to know the university and the Dutch (research) environment.
• A Development Track with the prospect of becoming an Associate Professor. If you have a more senior profile, a tailor-made career proposal will be considered.
• High-quality training programs for academic leadership and teaching.
• An excellent technical infrastructure and on-campus children's day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and partner career support.
• The possibility for part-time employment starting at 0.8 fte (min. 32 hours a week).
• The start date of this position is flexible and in agreement with the candidate.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

Embedding of our professors

The department of Mechanical Engineering is organized in eight large sections, each comprising approximately ten Assistant, Associate, or Full Professors. All are considered as Principal Investigator (PI) according to our ‘everybody Professor’ vision. Each PI has the academic freedom to define and develop their own research profile. At the same time, collaboration lies at the heart of our culture; PIs actively engage with one another both within and across the sections. Within each section PIs share responsibility for shaping and delivering part of the curriculum, as well as access to state-of-the-art lab facilities and dedicated technical support. 

Our culture

We foster a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative working environment where everyone feels valued and respected. We stimulate a team-oriented culture in which ideas are openly shared and interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged. Challenges are met with a proactive, can-do attitude, and we prioritize mutual support and personal growth. Our commitment to wellbeing is reflected in initiatives such as intervision groups, a Wellbeing Signal Group, professional leadership programs, and an active mentoring system.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Questions regarding the scientific content can be directed to Associate Professor Simon Eugster via [email protected].

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact Josje van Oudenaarden, Senior Recruiter, via [email protected] or +31 643559575.

Curious to hear more about what it is like as a professor at TU/e? Please watch the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• Description of your scientific interests and plans (1-2 pages).
• Statement of your teaching goals and experience (1-2 pages).

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. Please note that incomplete applications may not be considered and could be rejected.

We look forward to receiving your application at the latest August 23rd 23:59 CET, 2026.

The recruitment process will include the following sequential selection rounds:

• Online interviews with a selection committee on September 10, 2026.
• A shortlist of candidates will be invited to visit our campus, including interviews and an introduction program to get to know the group, the department and our university. This will take place on October 14 or October 15, 2026.
• A final formal interview on our campus with a Recruitment Advisory Committee, which will assess the candidate’s suitability. We expect this to take place in November or December 2026.

We look forward to your application and potentially welcoming you to our university.

Please note 

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.