Skip to content

Postdoctoral Researcher: Biologically Inspired Motion Systems for Robotics

Fixed-term Position 25 to 36 months

Leuven (Belgium)

Published on 2 September 2026

  • Contract

    Fixed-term Position 25 to 36 months

  • Location

    Leuven (Belgium)

  • Start date

    As soon as possible

  • Salary

    Information not provided

  • Remote working

    Not specified

Postdoctoral Researcher: Biologically Inspired Motion Systems for Robotics

Current actuator technologies facesignificant limitations in applications where compactness, softness, silentoperation, and biological compatibility are essential. Conventionalelectromagnetic motors are often bulky, rigid, noisy, difficult to miniaturizeand require power converter for portable settings. As robotics rapidly evolves,new opportunities emerge for leveraging imec's unique technology portfolio inadvanced cleanroom processes, micro-scale actuators, microfluidics and energystorage systems. To accelerate ourambitions in this space, we are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to developa new class of electrochemical actuators that will enable lightweight,energy-efficient, silent, compact, scalable, and inherently safe actuators for prosthetics,humanoid robots and micro-robotics.

What you will do

  • Perform hands-on scientific work in the early phase: designing experiments, device fabrication and characterization, building proof of concepts, and validating key hypotheses.
  • Contribute to project definition, planning, execution, and reporting.
  • Present research findings to internal stakeholders, customers, project partners, and at international conferences.
  • Contribute to scientific publications and technical documentation.
  • Support cross-site communication and alignment between research groups and project partners.

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world's premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you'll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth.

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits.

Who you are

  • You hold a doctoral degree in robotics, mechatronics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or related.
  • You are proficient in the use of mathematical software such as MATLAB or Python and CAE software (finite element modeling e.g. COMSOL). Experience with MEMS design and/or microfabrication knowledge are an asset.
  • You have experience with supervising master and/or PhD students.
  • You have strong analytical skills and are well organized.
  • You are an excellent communicator and a team player. You work well in multidisciplinary environments, enjoy operating at the interface of technology and robotic applications and can leverage expertise across different domains, including sensors, mechanical systems, and semiconductor technologies.
  • You have a strong sense of responsibility and are also able to autonomously plan and perform research tasks. You respect the predetermined milestones in research projects.
  • Your English is fluent, both in speaking and writing.

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter "Agency") to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.

Application deadline

As long as the job is online

Study level

Doctorate

Job Category

Technology

More about the company

imec

Embracing a better life.