Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering
Institute:
Denmark Technical University
Country:
Denmark
Research Field:
polymers, materials science, and structural optimization, composite materials
Posted Date:
Mar 26, 2026
Deadline:
Apr 09, 2026
Offer Period:
1 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
Postdoc position in 4D Printing of Smart Sustainable Fibre-Reinforced Materials
Project Description:
- We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoc to advance the next generation of adaptive, functionally tailored composite structures through predominant experimental research. In this role, you will develop and leverage sub voxel control of fiber orientation to program material behavior directly during the printing process. By combining advanced process development with topology optimization, you will tailor mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, and other multifunctional properties within a single printed component.
- We invite you to join our section Digital Building Technologies at the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering as a Postdoc, where you will collaborate with a team of experts dedicated to advancing the digital transformation of the built environment. Our research focuses on developing and applying digital technologies such as additive manufacturing/3D printing, numerical modelling, artificial intelligence, automation and robotics, digital twins, and smart materials.
Your responsibility will be to:
- Your work will focus on large-scale processing of thermosetting polymers in our in-house developed robotic 3D printing cell for two-component thermoset composites. You will design, manufacture, and characterize specimens with spatially controlled anisotropy, translating microstructural control into predictable macroscopic performance.
- This position offers a unique opportunity to experimentally realize programmable composite materials, bridging digital fabrication, materials science, and structural optimization to unlock new capabilities in large-scale additive manufacturing.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- You have an open and creative mindset and can think across disciplines combining materials science, mechanics, and digital fabrication.
- You have a solid background in additive manufacturing, composite materials, or robotic fabrication.
- You are eager to explore the newest developments in 3D printing and test innovative ideas through hands-on experimentation.
- You have experience with digital design and control tools such as MATLAB and RobotStudio, and possibly with robotic systems (e.g., ABB, KUKA, or UR).
- You have practical experience with material testing, mechanical characterization, or process parameter optimization.
- As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).
Preferred Qualification:
- Knowledge of fiber-reinforced polymers and their mechanical or thermal behavior.
- Previous experience in large-area additive manufacturing and thermosetting composites
- Experience with simulation tools for thermal, mechanical, or flow processes (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS, or OpenFOAM).
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- The period of employment is one year.
Benefits:
- DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
- The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- A motivation letter (cover letter)
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
How to apply:
- Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 9 April 2026 (23:59 Danish time).
- Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file.
- Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
DTU Energy is focused on education, research, and development within functional materials and their application in sustainable energy technologies. In a sustainable energy system, a large part of the energy will be supplied by fluctuating sources such as solar and wind power. This makes it critically important to be able to convert and store the energy as needed. Our research areas include fuel and electrolysis cells, solar cells, and batteries as well as advanced filtration devices. We are ca. 300 employees. Additional information about the department can be found on http://www.energy.dtu.dk. Technology for people DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
Explore Other Similar Positions:
You may also be interested in the following postdoc research positions. These opportunities are currently open across universities and research institutes worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a postdoctoral position?
Postdoctoral positions are open to candidates who have completed a PhD or will complete their doctoral degree before the start date. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the funding scheme and host institution.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most postdoctoral positions are open to international applicants. Visa sponsorship and work permit support are usually provided by the host institution, subject to local regulations.
Is prior postdoctoral experience required?
In most cases, prior postdoctoral experience is not mandatory. However, candidates with relevant research experience beyond the PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
What is the typical duration of a postdoctoral contract?
Postdoctoral contracts typically range from six months to three years, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance.
Are teaching responsibilities included?
Teaching responsibilities vary by institution and position. Some postdoctoral roles are research-only, while others may include limited teaching or supervision duties.
Can I apply for multiple postdoctoral positions?
Yes. Candidates are encouraged to apply for multiple suitable postdoctoral positions to increase their chances of selection.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.