PhD Scholarship in Multi-Material 3D Printing for Advanced Robotic Grippers

We invite applications for a fully funded 3-year 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.

Application procedure 

To apply, please read the full job advertisement by clicking the Apply button above. 

Application deadline: 7 October 2025

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 and about DTU at www.dtu.dk/english.

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