The Chairs of Nonlinear Solid Mechanics (NSM) and Advanced Manufacturing for Sustainable Products and Energy Systems (AMPSES), within Faculty of Engineering Technology, have an opening for a PhD position focused on the development of adaptive winglets using shape memory alloys in aircraft.

The Challenge
This research project seeks to advance the aviation sector by developing adaptive winglets featuring morphing surfaces, utilizing Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) and a hybrid AI-driven control system. This approach aims to deliver notable aerodynamic gains, extending aircraft range and operational efficiency while lowering environmental impact. The control system combines passive mechanisms that respond to ambient temperature variations at different altitudes with active thermal adjustments for precise, real-time modulation. This dual-control strategy optimizes winglet configurations across various flight phases, reducing reliance on conventional, heavy mechanical components. By introducing this hybrid system, the project aims to establish a foundational shift in aircraft design prioritizing fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, and alignment with climate-neutral targets for 2050.

Your role

• Participate in cutting-edge research under the guidance of leading experts in the field.
• Engage in the design, simulation, and experimental testing of SMAs and morphing structures.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team including members from the University of Twente, Technical University Delft, and other partners.
• Report your research findings in bi-weekly meetings and at international conferences.
• Prepare and publish your research in high-impact academic journals.

• A master’s degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, aerospace engineering or a closely related field, with excellent grades.
• Expertise in in computational mechanics, with a strong foundation in nonlinear continuum mechanics, finite element analysis, and data analysis, especially as applied to materials science.
• Interest in experimental methods related to materials science, with an emphasis on shape memory alloys.
• Proficient in programming and simulation software.
• Independent, responsible, and highly motivated with strong analytical skills.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both verbal and written.

• As a PhD candidate at UT, you will be appointed to a full-time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year, within a very stimulating and exciting scientific environment.
• The University offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 2.872,- (first year) to € 3.670,- (fourth year).
• There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full-time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus.
• A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid)
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision.
• We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff.