PhD Position in Micro-Robotics

Project Overview

Minimally invasive interventions increasingly require tools capable of sensing, actuation, and manipulation at sub‑millimetre scales. Micro‑robotic systems enable highly miniaturized devices that can operate in confined anatomical environments and interact with biological tissue with high spatial precision.

This PhD project focuses on the development of surgical micro‑robotic devices, with emphasis on micro‑ and nano‑fabrication and optical technologies for sensing, actuation, and control. The research includes the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of micro‑scale robotic platforms, integration of optical and imaging‑based feedback, and development of modelling and control strategies for operation in complex biological environments. Particular attention will be given to scalable fabrication and integration of photonic sensing or actuation.

The project is conducted within the Surgical Robotics Laboratory and the Department of Biomechanical Engineering at the University of Twente, in close collaboration with the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and clinical and international partners.

You hold a Master’s degree in applied physics, nanotechnology, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline.

You have a strong background in micro‑scale systems or robotics and experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Optical sensing, photonics, or light‑based micro‑scale actuation
• Micro‑ and nano‑fabrication (e.g., lithography, thin‑film processing, MEMS, micro‑assembly)
• Modelling and control of micro‑robotic or compliant robotic systems
• Integration of miniaturised sensing and actuation systems for biomedical or robotic applications

Experience combining optical technologies with micro‑fabrication or robotics is an advantage.

• A full‑time 4‑year PhD position;
• Excellent mentorship and a stimulating international research environment with excellent facilities;
• A professional and personal development program within Graduate School Twente;
• A starting salary of € 3059,- in the first year and a salary of € 3881,- in the fourth year gross per month;
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year‑end bonus of 8.3%;
• A minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of full‑time employment.
• The UT provides a dynamic and international environment, combining the benefits of academic research with a topic of high industrial relevance, excellent working conditions, an exciting scientific environment, and a green and lively campus.

You can apply for this position until 31 March 2026 by clicking the ‘apply now’ button below.

Please include:

• CV (including contact information for at least two academic references)
• Title and abstract of your Master’s project/thesis.

For more information on this position, please contact Prof. Sarthak Misra, [email protected].

• Interviews will take place approximately 4 weeks after your application.
• Screening is part of the procedure.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people‑first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains:
Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor’s and Master’s students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, Tech Med Center and Digital Society Institute.