Principal Investigator Mechanical Actuators

Imec is a world-leading research hub combining advanced semiconductor technologies, nano and microsystems engineering, and application driven innovation. As the field of robotics rapidly evolves, new opportunities emerge for leveraging imec’s unique technology portfolio - including advanced sensors, micro‑ and MEMS-scale actuation, microfluidics, and system integration- to unlock breakthrough robotic solutions for industry, health, and society. To accelerate our ambitions in this space, we are looking for a Senior Researcher in mechanical actuation to strengthen our mechanics expertise domain.

What you will do

You will be the scientific engine behind the team working on artificial muscles for robotics with an emphasis on (micro)actuation, mechanical simulations leveraging concepts and materials from nanotechnology and microfabrication. 

Your responsibilities 

• Translate imec’s core technologies into new (micro)robotic concepts and identify high-impact applications in domains where micro‑actuation and MEMS-scale motion can create breakthrough solutions. 
• Perform handson scientific work in the early phase: designing experiments, evaluating technologies, building proofofconcepts, and validating key hypotheses. 
• Actively initiate and drive new research activities in mechanics for robotics, including scouting opportunities and applying for public funding. 
• Collaborate closely with the MEMS, ionics, microsystems, microfluidics, and materials to merge emerging technologies into early proof-of-concepts. 
• Build imec’s robotics presence through PhD supervision, project acquisition, and public funding proposals.

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 PhD in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or related and at least 3 years of post‑PhD experience in mechanical system design, MEMS, micro‑actuation linked to artificial muscles or robotic mechanisms. 
• Experience with MEMS multiphysics simulation tools (COMSOL, Coventor, Ansys, etc.) and/or microfabrication is a strong asset. 
• You are an excellent communicator and enjoy operating at the interface of technology and robotic applications.
• You work well in multidisciplinary environments and can leverage expertise across sensors, mechanical systems, and semiconductor technologies. 
• A track record in initiating new ideas and acquiring funding that lead to collaborative projects is considered a strong plus. 

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.