You will lead the Control and Manipulation specialisation research line within the SMART Mechatronics and Robotics research group. In this content-based leadership role, you will guide the development of the group’s competences and ensure the financial soundness of the research line. You are expected to establish a strong regional, national as well as international network and keep the research line up to date through active promotion, project acquisition, and effective exploitation of results in education, research, and industry. In addition, you will align closely with the other (associate) professors and collaborate with project managers, team leaders, researchers, and students to create new and innovative practical knowledge and to build a unified, future-oriented team.
At Saxion we explore future developments, look beyond our borders and disciplines and drive innovation. By doing this together we contribute to a smarter, safer and more sustainable world. We question how significant technological innovations are and how they can contribute to humanity, society and our planet. We teach our students to look at social issues from a broad perspective and to come up with practical solutions.
School of Life Science, Engineering and Design
As Associate Professor in Robotic Control and Manipulation at Saxion, you will be a member of the Smart Mechatronics And RoboTics (SMART) Researd group. This team is part of the School of Life Science, Engineering and Design (LED). LED offers an inspiring and effective learning, work and research environment, focused on applied technologies and recent national and international developments.
Working at Saxion means working on inspiring, future-oriented education and research. You will fulfil an exciting position, working independently in a dynamic, socially relevant organisation that matters. The position provides you with plenty of opportunities to take initiative and develop.
We also offer the following:
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The following salary scale: scale 13: min € 6,461 / max € 8,020 (cao-hbo) working on a full-time basis.
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8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus.
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You will receive a temporary contract, with the possibility of extension.
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A generous leave policy. For example: if you work full-time and have opted for a 40-hour week you can take 428 hours of leave annually. This means you will have 53.5 holiday leave days, including statutory holiday days and public holidays.
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Personal development: follow an inspirational webinar, workshop or training course at our internal Saxion Academy, do a career check or explore the possibilities of taking a master’s degree or PhD programme or professional doctorate.
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The Saxion Hybrid Working Package
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A comprehensive retirement plan. See the cao-hbo for more information.
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100% allowance for travel by public transport and tax benefits on the purchase of a bicycle.
Would you like to find out more about our terms of employment? Check out our webpage.
We seek a professional who fits the job profile below. Does this sound like you? Then this job is ideal for you!
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A doctoral degree and at least five years of experience (industry or academia) in Robotics, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering; strong theoretical and practical expertise in dynamic modelling and simulation of complex physical systems, advanced control of industrial manipulators and autonomous unmanned robotic systems, and reinforcement learning.
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Demonstrated strategic and analytical thinking, with the ability to bridge market needs and scientific research, including active involvement of (higher) professional education.
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Proven experience in building networks, acquiring R&D projects, mobilising teams to deliver successful results and ensuring effective exploitation of outcomes in education, research and industry.
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A leadership and working style characterised by being an inspiring coach, ambitious leader, results-oriented team player and a flexible, open and hospitable colleague.
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Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines and organisational levels.
Feeling enthusiastic? Then apply directly for the position of Associate Professor in Robotic Control and Manipulation using this application form.
If you have any questions about this position, Then please contact Abeje Y. Mersha – Professor of Smart Mechatronics and Robotics, at +316 2233 7351. Limited access: I will have limited access during the holidays (July 21st, 2025 – August 17th, 2026).
Saxion strives to be a diverse and inclusive organisation. Feel free to apply.
VOG - may be part of the application process.
For your diary:
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Applications can be submitted until Monday 31-08-2026.
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The first job interview is on Tuesday 15-09-2026 between 09.00-12.00h.
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Finally, we schedule a second interview and/or employment conditions on a later time
This position is open to both internal and external candidates. In case of equal suitability, internal candidates will be given preference.
Acquisition from employment agencies, based on this vacancy, is not appreciated.
