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**Job Description**
This PhD position focuses on realizing learning in novel physical materials, as part of a joint theoretical/experimental project. The goal is to imbue metamaterials and robots with intrinsic adaptation and learning capabilities, drawing inspiration from living systems. The research will involve a combination of theory, numerical experiments, and precision desktop experiments to create 3D materials with self-adapting elastic elements that counteract environmental changes and internal aging. The project aims to develop materials that learn continually without forgetting, pushing synthetic materials closer to their living counterparts and redefining materials engineering for adaptive materials and robotics.

**Skills & Abilities**
• Strong background in physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, or computer science with an interest in complex meta-materials and (physical) learning
• Good verbal and written communication skills in English
• Experience with coding (Python/Matlab) and numerical methods (advantageous)
• Familiarity with concepts in complex systems, physical memories or machine learning (advantageous)

**Qualifications**
Required Degree(s) in:
• Physics
• Mechanical engineering
• Materials science
• Computer science
Other:
• PhD candidates must meet the requirements for an MSc degree.

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Work Level
Ph.D
Employment Type
Scholarship
Salary
Annual Salary: €35,616 gross (starting) Benefits: Range of employment benefits, specially developed courses for PhD students, assistance with housing and visa applications for foreign PhD students, compensation for transport costs and furnishing expenses.
Valid Until
March 10, 2026
Details
Temporary / Full-time Duration: 4 years Remote Work: No Location Requirement: Assistance with housing and visa applications for foreign PhD students is provided, implying potential relocation. Campus-based; position hosted at AMOLF, experimental work at University of Amsterdam science park campus.
School / Department / Center / Lab
• The Machine Materials laboratory (University of Amsterdam) • The Learning Machines group (AMOLF)
Supervisor(s)
Dr. Menachem Stern Dr. Corentin Coulais
Supervisor Email
m.stern@amolf.nl c.coulais@uva.nl

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