PhD position Sensors for Neuromorphic Touch in Adaptive Robotic Grasping

Rijksuniversiteit Groningen -
Groningen

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Vacaturegegevens

Fulltime
7 dagen geleden

Kwalificaties

Doctor
Engels
Master
Analytisch vermogen
Bachelor
Materiaalkunde
Lesgeven

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Deze vacature is alleen beschikbaar in het Engels

Do you want to play a crucial role in researching and developing new applications for the next generation of computer technology? At CogniGron, a globally recognized research center of the University of Groningen for brain-inspired (neuromorphic) computing, we are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to conduct research on Adaptive object grasping within our demonstrator programme. The goal of CogniGron’s demonstrator programme is to develop prototypes and proof of concepts that showcase the potential of neuromorphic technologies for solving current challenges in computing.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Solliciteer uiterlijk: 21 June 2026 23:59 Dutch local time

1 fte

€3.059 - €3.881

PhD position Sensors for Neuromorphic Touch in Adaptive Robotic Grasping

What are you going to do?

You will work in the interdisciplinary environment of CogniGron that is part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Your project is related to the demonstrator topic of Low-power neuromorphic systems for mobility and monitoring. In this research area, current challenges are the development of real-time capabilities, high data efficiency while allowing operation within low-power and low-cost constraints. In this project, we are collaborating with industry partners with the aim to improve accuracy, speed and cost-efficiency of neuromorphic touch on robotic grippers.The specific goal of this PhD project is to develop a sensorized, touch-based control system for a robotic gripper, incorporating flexible electronic tactile sensors to enable robust manipulation of objects with diverse shapes, sizes, compliances, and weight distributions.This robotic gripper should adjust its approach to the object in real-time through fast data processing and adaptation.

Why should you consider this position?

Collaboration with industry and other external partners: Your research is directly contributing to demonstrating the advantages of neuromorphic technologies for real-world applications
Supporting innovation: You will play a key role in developing new computer technologies that offer significant improvements over current conventional technologies at a research centre that is at the forefront of interdisciplinary neuromorphic computing research.
(Inter)national collaboration: You will work within a vibrant, highly international, multidisciplinary and innovative environment with leading researchers and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow PhDs and researchers from various disciplines

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Solliciteer uiterlijk: 21 June 2026 23:59 Dutch local time

€3.059 - €3.881

Who are you?

You are an enthusiastic, creative and curious researcher with:

A Master’s degree (completed or near completion) in Electrical Engineering, Materials Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering or another relevant field.
Motivation to perform high-quality science that translates into real-world applications for use cases brought in by external partners.
Demonstrable competence in at least one or more of the key areas related to the position (e.g., flexible and wearable electronics, micro electromechanical systems (MEMS), printed electronics and sensors, soft robotics, event-based sensors, electronic materials, neuromorphic engineering).
A solid foundation in MEMS, sensors and actuators, electronic materials, and /or advanced functional materials
Good analytical and problem-solving abilities, and a critical mindset.
Very good written and spoken English, as required for scientific communication.
Evidence of well-executed past research projects (e.g., Master thesis, publications, research assistant position).
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international research environment.

What can you expect from us?

In accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities, we offer a salary of at least € 3.059 up to a maximum of € 3.881 (promovendus) gross per month for a full-time employment contract.
232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.
Temporary employment of 1.0 FTE for a period of four years. You will first receive a temporary employment for the period of one year. After a positive Results and Development Interview, the contract will be extended for the remaining period of three years.

Where will you be working?

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) provides teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, from physics and biology to artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, and pharmacy. In close collaboration with partners from industry, healthcare, and society, we contribute to the urgent challenges of our time, such as energy, sustainability, digitization, and medical technology. Our community is open and informal, with more than 7,000 students, 1,000 PhD students, and 1,400 staff members from all over the world. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Science and Engineering, visit rug.nl/fse.

CogniGron is an internationally recognized research center within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. We conduct fundamental and applied research on self-learning materials and systems for the next generation of computer chips. Inspired by the human brain, we develop chips that can be up to 10,000 times more energy-efficient than current models. Our goal is to create a blueprint for “future-proof computing” by demonstrating real-world solutions in different application domains. These solutions will successfully address the current challenges in computing and data processing in terms of energy consumption, autonomy, latency and privacy. CogniGron offers a vibrant research environment with many opportunities to meet, interact and collaborate with experts in AI, computer science, material science, mathematics, electrical engineering and robotics.

Application procedure

Step 1: Your application

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.

Step 2: Selection

The selection committee assesses your application and you will be notified as soon as possible whether you are invited for an interview.

Step 3: First interview

We would like to get to know each other better in a first interview, which can take place either online or on location.

Step 4: Second interview and possible assessment or guest lecture

We may schedule a second interview with you. Depending on the position, this interview can be complemented with an assessment or guest lecture.

Step 5: Terms of employment meeting

After a positive interview, we will discuss the terms of employment together. When everything is completed, we are happy to welcome you at the University of Groningen!

Interested?

Does this vacancy appeal to you? If so, click on the button below and apply straightaway.

Please add the following documents to your application:

Letter of motivation
CV, including contact information for at least two academic referees
Transcripts from bachelor’s and master’s degrees

Do you have any questions or need more information?

Questions about the content of the job?

Luisella Kraak

Management/Office-assistant
[email protected]
Questions about your application process?

Luisella Kraak

Management/Office-assistant
[email protected]

Information about applying

When scheduling meetings, we will take your schedule into account as much as possible.

The University of Groningen considers social safety important. We strive to be a university where staff and students feel respected and at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identity. For more information, see also our page about our diversity policy.

Acquisition is not appreciated.

Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the NVP Application Code.

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