DIFFER is looking for a Group Leader in AI-Assisted Autonomous Experimentation to strengthen our Chemical Energy Department.
Status
open
Location
De Zaale 20 Eindhoven
Department
Theme Solar Fuels
Group
Autonomous Energy Materials Discovery
Kind of contract
Permanent
Kind of function
Scientific staff
Working hours

POSITION AND REQUIREMENTS

Requirements:

• PhD in computer science, materials science, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related discipline, with a strong focus on automation, robotics, or AI-driven experimental methods.
• Proven hands-on experience in developing and implementing automated experimental workflows, including the integration of robotics.
• Demonstrated excellence in research, evidenced by a record of high-impact publications, patents, or other significant scientific contributions.
• Proven ability to attract and manage competitive research funding, and to build collaborative projects with academic and/or industrial partners.
• Strong leadership, project management, and collaborative skills.
• Excellent proficiency in English.

At DIFFER, we value scientific passion, collaboration, inclusivity, and leadership. Candidates are expected to uphold professionalism, openness, and respect, contributing to a positive and productive research environment. We offer world-class research facilities, along with extensive opportunities for professional development, and a collaborative environment for groundbreaking research.

• Lead the establishment and management of an integrated autonomous experimentation platform, combining advanced synthesis, material and chemical characterization equipment into a unified, automated system.
• Develop and implement AI-driven methodologies for autonomous, adaptive experimentation – including active learning algorithms and self-optimizing experimental workflows – ensuring effective integration across heterogeneous instruments.
• Contribute to the development of a robust data infrastructure adhering to FAIR data principles, enabling real-time data acquisition, analysis, and decision-making to accelerate discovery.
• Apply insights from digital twin simulations developed by colleagues to improve the design of physical laboratory setups and experimental workflows.
• Collaborate closely with materials scientists, chemists, and engineers to ensure effective integration of synthesis and characterization techniques, and AI tools into the self-driving lab framework.
• Secure external research funding through competitive grants and industrial partnerships to expand the capabilities and impact of the group’s research.
• Supervise PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and engineers, promoting scientific excellence and career development.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and stakeholder engagement activities