PhD student (M/F/D) – Tactile appeal Of 3D-printed surfaces


The INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials in Saarbrücken, Germany, is an internationally leading center for materials research, a scientific partner to national and international research institutions, and a provider of research and development for companies throughout the world. The INM is an institute of the Leibniz Association and has about 250 employees.

Touch and feel are central to our perception of the world and to our well-being. The “Interactive Surfaces” group at INM, led by Roland Bennewitz, develops surfaces with defined microstructure and interface energy to create materials with strong haptic appeal and potential for effective tactile signaling. Our psychophysical projects connect material development, skin friction, and perception. We are looking for a

PhD student (M/F/D) – tactile appeal of 3D-printed surfaces

In this DFG-supported project, you will define surface microstructures, realize the surfaces by advanced 3D printing, and investigate fingertip friction and perception of the samples by touch. One goal is the definition of a roughness with minimal friction and a most pleasant touch. Our haptics team at INM collaborates closely with computational materials scientists, psychologists, dermatologists, and neurologist to develop new materials for the future of tactile communication.

Your profile:

  • Broad background in materials science, physics, or related fields
  • Strong interest in interdisciplinary research and collaboration

Candidates should be self-motivated, have good interpersonal, communication and writing skills. The ability to work as a member of an international, multi-disciplinary team is a critical asset, and proficiency in English is mandatory.

Please direct your questions regarding the positions to Roland Bennewitz (roland.bennewitz@leibniz-inm.de). Interested candidates should submit their complete application via email (a single pdf file less than 5 MB) to Gabriele Koster at gabriele.koster@leibniz-inm.de including the following:

  • motivation letter of max. 1 page (included in the text of the email)
  • CV (max. 2 pages)
  • certificates or transcripts

We ask for submission before 15th December 2021. We expect to fill the positions as soon as possible for you. The salary level is E13 TV-L 50%, with an expected increase during the project and 3 years initial contract. The INM is an equal opportunity employer with a certified family-friendly policy. We promote professional opportunities for women and strongly encourage them to apply. Full-time jobs can generally be divided. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualification and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

Your contact partner
Herr Roland Bennewitz
E-Mail: roland.bennewitz@leibniz-inm.de