PhD Position Haptics

We are looking for an ambitious Ph.D. Student interested in multimodal haptics research!

The Haptic Interface Technology Lab (HITLab) is seeking an ambitious and motivated Ph.D. Student to join our cutting‑edge research on the synthesis of multimodal tactile surface sensations.

• Design tactile signals with specific attributes.
• Conduct human‑participant experiments to evaluate perceptual responses to the haptic feedback.
• Apply machine learning algorithms to analyze perceptual and physical data.
• Develop writing and communication skills by publishing in journals and conferences.
• Develop presentation and networking skills by attending international conferences.
• Develop leadership skills by co‑supervising B.Sc. And M.Sc. Students for their projects and improving lab organization.
• Develop teaching skills by actively contributing to courses as a teaching assistant.

• High motivation for working on an interdisciplinary research project.
• MSc. Degree in a related subject (Electronics engineering, computer science, mechatronics engineering, or similar).
• Interest in haptics.
• Interest in working in an international team.
• Dare to dream big and take initiative.
• Hunger for learning “new” things.
• Independent and critical attitude.
• Strong work ethic and scientific integrity.
• Experience in any of the following attributes is specifically encouraged: signal processing, mechatronic design, data analysis with machine learning algorithms, work with electromechanical hardware (e.g., sensors, actuators).

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4‑year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts: an initial 1.5‑year contract with a go/no‑go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 to €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a full‑time contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3%.

Additional benefits include a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, a monthly work‑costs contribution, and flexible work schedules.

Interested candidates should apply no later than 30 July 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• Motivation letter (1–2 pages) explaining your fit for this project by highlighting your related research skills.
• CV.
• Your M.Sc. Thesis or publications (if applicable).
• Transcripts of your M.Sc. And B.Sc. Studies.

Please address your application to Dr. Yasemin Vardar. All applications must be submitted online; applications sent by email or post will not be considered.