PhD Position in Manufacturing Full 3D Printed Electronic Devices using 6-Axis Robots and Non-Planar AM

Job Description

Université Grenoble Alpes invites applications for a fully funded 36-month PhD position focused on developing innovative additive manufacturing methods for creating 3D electronic devices integrated within complex structures. This interdisciplinary project combines robotics, material science, multiphysics modeling, and printed electronics to revolutionize how electronic components are fabricated and embedded in functional 3D architectures.

Job Details

About the Project

The Full3D Project at Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA) seeks to push the boundaries of additive manufacturing by enabling fully 3D printed electronic systems through advanced six-axis robotic platforms. This approach aims to integrate electronic functionality directly within 3D-printed structures, creating truly multifunctional materials and devices.

The project will explore:

• Development of conductive inks and functional materials.

• Multiphysics modeling to predict device performance under deformation.

• Integration of robotic motion control for non-planar additive manufacturing.

Through this innovative approach, the research aims to enable new-generation flexible, embedded, and adaptive electronic systems, redefining how electronics are designed and manufactured.

Host Institutions & Collaboration

The PhD will be conducted jointly between two top research labs:

• LGP2 Laboratory (CNRS) – specializes in additive manufacturing of wood-derived materials and conductive inks using six-axis robots.

• 3SR Laboratory (CNRS) – focuses on multiphysics modeling and 3D characterization via X-ray tomography and digital volume correlation.

A 3-month research secondment at ChiLab-ITEM, Politecnico di Torino (Italy) will further strengthen expertise in sensor design and additive electronics manufacturing.

Research Objectives

The PhD candidate will contribute to the following axes:

1. Ink–Substrate Interaction & Processability

   • Study of rheology, deposition behavior, and curing compatibility.

2. Multiphysics Design & Simulation

   • Development of computational models predicting electromechanical behavior.

3. Robotic Additive Manufacturing Development

   • Integration of 6-axis robotic control for multi-material and non-planar printing.

The work will involve both experimental and computational approaches, combining materials formulation, device design, and robotic fabrication into one seamless workflow.

Candidate Profile

Required Qualification:

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Robotics, Electronics, or Applied Physics.

• Strong background in additive manufacturing, rheology, robotics, or multiphysics modeling.

Preferred Experience:

• Familiarity with 3D printing processes, electronic ink formulation, or finite element modeling (COMSOL, ANSYS).

• Skills in robotic control software (Rhino/Grasshopper, Val3, etc.) will be an asset.

Personal Qualities:

• Scientific curiosity, creativity, and the ability to work across disciplines.

• Strong communication and project management skills.

Employment Conditions & Benefits

• Duration: 36 months full-time contract.

• Funding: Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND fellowship.

• Salary: Approx. €2,050–€2,152/month (net), with full social benefits.

• Extras:

  • 45 days of paid vacation.

  • Access to UGA’s International Student Office for visa, housing, and banking support.

  • Covered tuition, visa fees, and health insurance.

  • Networking within the European MSCA Fellows community.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should apply through the PhD@Tec21 Programme portal by February 28, 2026.
Applications must include:

• CV and motivation letter (max. 2 pages).

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.

• Contact details of referees and proof of English proficiency.

Contact for inquiries:
📧 [email protected] / [email protected]

Reference Links

• PhD@Tec21 Official Website

• Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA)

• ChiLab-ITEM, Politecnico di Torino

Disclaimer

All details are provided for informational purposes only. Please refer to the official PhD@Tec21 and Université Grenoble Alpes websites for the most accurate and updated information.