Would you like to bridge the gap between AI, robotics and smart manufacturing? Design an innovative integration framework for flexible production lines and collaborate with companies on the next generation of Smart Industrial Systems. Combine practice-oriented research with a direct impact on SMEs. Apply now!

This is what you do as Professional Doctorate (PD) Smart Industrial Systems

You will design, research and implement an innovative integration framework for Smart Industrial Systems. You will combine technology, AI, people and organisation, collaborate with companies and students, develop new knowledge and oversee its practical implementation within the scope of SPRONG Digital-Driven Manufacturing (DDM). In doing so, you will fulfil the roles of innovator, researcher, professional and change agent.

This is where you will work

At Saxion we explore future developments, look beyond our borders and disciplines and drive innovation. By doing this together we contribute to a smarter, safer and more sustainable world. We question how significant technological innovations are and how they can contribute to humanity, society and our planet. We teach our students to look at social issues from a broad perspective and to come up with practical solutions.

Academy of Life Science, Engineering and Design

As a Professional Doctorate (PD), you will be working within the Smart Mechatronics & Robotics (SMART) research group. This team forms part of the Academy of Life Science, Engineering and Design (LED). LED offers an inspiring and effective learning, working and research environment, focused on applied technologies and recent national and international developments.

Saxion’s employment terms and conditions

Working at Saxion means working on inspiring, future-oriented education and research. You will fulfil an exciting position, working independently in a dynamic, socially relevant organisation that matters. The position provides you with plenty of opportunities to take initiative and develop.

We also offer the following:

• The following salary scale: scale 11: min € 4,632 / max € 6,677 (cao-hbo) working on a full-time basis.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus.
• You will receive a temporary contract, with the possibility of extension.
• A generous leave policy. For example: if you work full-time and have opted for a 40-hour week you can take 428 hours of leave annually. This means you will have 53.5 holiday leave days, including statutory holiday days and public holidays.
• Personal development: follow an inspirational webinar, workshop or training course at our internal Saxion Academy, do a career check or explore the possibilities of taking a master’s degree or PhD programme or professional doctorate.
• The Saxion Hybrid Working Package
• A comprehensive retirement plan. See the cao-hbo for more information.
• 100% allowance for travel by public transport and tax benefits on the purchase of a bicycle.

Would you like to find out more about our terms of employment? Check out our webpage.

Job requirements

We seek a professional who fits the job profile below. Does this sound like you? Then this job is ideal for you!

• A completed Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Robotics, Computer Science, Industrial Engineering or a similar technical discipline.
• A demonstrable interest in AI, robotics, industrial automation and Smart Industry, with the ambition to bridge disciplines.
• Strong analytical and research skills, combined with a practical, design-oriented approach.
• You are able to collaborate effectively with companies, researchers, students and other stakeholders, and know how to engage people in technological change.
• Excellent communication skills in Dutch and English, both spoken and written.

How to apply

Interested? Then apply straight away for the role of Professional Doctorate (PD) using the application form.

Do you have any questions about this role? Please contact Abeje Y. Mersha – Senior Lecturer in Smart Mechatronics and Robotics on +31 622 337 351 or Stephan Maathuis, Director of the LED Academy, on +31 88 019 1620.

Saxion strives to be a diverse and inclusive organisation. You are very welcome to apply.

A Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) may form part of the application procedure.

Application procedure

For your agenda:

• Applications can be submitted until Sunday August 30st, 2026.
• The first job interviews are on Monday September 7th, 2026 between 12.30-14.00h.
• Finally, we schedule a second interview (optional) and/or a employment conditions on a later time.

Please note that this vacancy is open to both internal and external candidates. In the event of candidates with equal merit, internal candidates will be given priority.