Post-Doctoral opening in stretchable capacitive sensors

for human/machine interface

Composites Lab - KAUST

The Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia, invites applications for Postdoctoral fellow in Mechanical Engineering at the Mechanics of Composites for Energy and Mobility Lab. (MCEM, https://composites.kaust.edu.sa). Find the vacancy details in this document.

Field of study 

A Postdoctoral opening is available in the area of capacitive stretchable sensors with high sensitivity. 

Our patented technology relies on capacitive strain sensors with fragmented electrodes. The fragmentation of the electrodes equips these with super resistivity, resulting in a transmission line response of the capacitive sensor. This technology is very promising for new application in flexible electronics and human/machine interface.

The main objective of this project is to develop further this technology with an industry partner willing to integrate this in his products. The project is articulated around the below main tasks:

• Fabricating interdigitated fragmented capacitive sensors based on PDMS substrates and well-chosen piezo-resistive inks.
• Validation of the mechanical, electrical and electro-mechanical performance of the sensor.
• Optimization of the performance and robustness of the sensors in various aggressive environment.
• Development of specific coatings for equipping the sensor with multifunctional properties including hydrogen detection.

Qualifications 

The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science or other relevant discipline. He/She must have a strong background in one or more of the following fields: flexible electronics, soft robotics, experimental solid mechanics, mechanical testing, and polymeric materials. For any appointment at MCEM, an in-depth knowledge of theoretical concepts is a firm requirement. 

A high level of self-motivation, strong publication record and a good command of oral and written English. Capability to work individually as well as in a team and with good organizing skill is essential. 

Other duties

The Postdoctoral fellow will be actively engaged in student mentoring (directed research, Master’s thesis students). He/She will also be in charge of developing further the facilities of the laboratory. The candidate will also be in charge of delivering regular reports related to the associated grant.

Appointment

1 year, renewable up to three years by mutual agreement. The candidate is expected to join the team as soon as a successful interview has been completed. 

Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, the successful candidate will enjoy a generous benefit package including medical insurance, on-campus housing facilities, K-12 school and outstanding recreational facilities.

Application Requirements

Only applications providing all requirements will be considered further.

Applicant requirements are as below. They should be numbered and attached to the application in this order:

1. Detailed CV including list of publications, awards, with potential start date.
   
2. Short statement of previous work, title of the post-doc fellowship you apply for and a description of your vision and of your research plan on that field (the document does not need to be extensive - no more than one A4 page – but should be very high quality. It should clearly highlight a vision of the candidate in the field, a prior understanding of the related literature and the definition of key steps towards innovative results in the field. Special care should be given by the candidate to this document, which is a key element of the decision process towards recruitment).
   
3. Names and contact information of three referees.
   
4. Slides from a recent presentation in a conference or seminar.
   
5. Pdf of a recent publication considered by the candidate as being representative of his research work.

Application Procedure

Interested applicants should send their complete application package to, Prof. Gilles Lubineau (gilles.lubineau@kaust.edu.sa) (With a systematic cc to khathijah.osman@kaust.edu.sa and ahmed.abdelhady.1@kaust.edu.sa). Please use this as the subject of your email: Post Doc MCEM23 – Stretchable Capacitive Sensors

Note: All applicants will be evaluated on rolling basis. Application will be closed as soon as a candidate has been accepted for this position.