We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on developing next-generation robotic grippers for biological laboratories. The project combines advances in multi-material 3D printing, embedded sensing, and adaptive control , aiming to meet the unique challenges of automation in life science environments.

Research tasks and qualifications
The main purpose of this PhD position is to develop next-generation soft robotic grippers with integrated sensing for use in automated biological laboratories. The grippers should be capable of handling irregular, soft, and fragile lab items—such as microtubes—while also performing embedded functions like weight and color detection. The project will combine multi-material 3D printing, sensor integration, and adaptive control, aiming to push automation capabilities beyond current limitations. You will work in close collaboration with automation engineers and life scientists to ensure real-world relevance and system integration in lab workflows.

Main tasks and responsibilities:

• Design soft robotic grippers with embedded sensors
• Develop and optimize multi-material 3D printing processes
• Integrate sensors and adaptive control systems
• Validate gripper performance in automated lab workflows
• Work closely with researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore
• Spend approx. 3 months conducting research at NTU as part of the project

Your activities during the PhD project will include:

• Conducting research activities related to the above points
• Following courses on topics related with your project, either at DTU or other institutions.
• Participating in teaching activities
• Attending international conferences where you will present your work.
• Publishing your research results in scientific, peer reviewed journals.

At DTU Construct, you will experience a lively research environment with other PhD projects that are related to yours. You will have access to world-class facilities and experienced, internationally recognized staff with opportunities for strong collaboration and exchange. The project is carried out in close collaboration with DALSA (DTU Arena for Life Science Automation) - a cross-departmental initiative that brings together engineers and life scientists to develop cutting-edge automation solutions for biological research. Through DALSA, you will gain hands-on exposure to real lab workflows and application-driven challenges in collaboration with DTU Bioengineering and DTU Electro. We emphasize the following required qualifications and skills:

• Strong foundation in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing or related fields. Experience with 3D printing and/or soft robotics is an advantage
• Familiarity with sensor integration and control systems 
• Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication
• Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large, dynamic group.
• Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
• Willingness to collaborate across departments and travel internationally

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

Approval and Enrolment  
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

We offer
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.

Salary and appointment terms 
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. 

The period of employment is 3 years. The position is a full-time position. Starting date is 1 April 2026 (or according to mutual agreement).

The workplace is DTU Lyngby Campus.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information  
Further information may be obtained from Yang Zhang, yazh@dtu.dk .

You can read more about Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at www.construct.dtu.dk. 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 7 October 2025 (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 . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Civil and Mechanical Engineering develops and utilizes science and technical knowledge for the benefit of society and sustainable development. We undertake research, education, innovation, and scientific advice of the highest quality within building design and processes, building construction and safety, building energy and installation, solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, materials technology, manufacturing engineering, engineering design and thermal energy systems. 

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.