Engineering Doctorate (EngD) Programs in Data, Software & Systems Design

Introduction

With over 140 (assistant, associate and full) professors, almost 250 PhD and EngD students, more than 3000 students, the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science (M&CS) is the largest department of the TU/e. By performing top-level fundamental and applied research, and maintaining strong ties with industry, M&CS aims to contribute to science and innovation in and beyond the region.

View our We Are Mathematics and Computer Science | TU/e to get to know us.

Job Description

Ready to take the next step after your MSc and launch your career? Want to become a professional and work with top organizations in the Netherlands?

We offer a unique, two-year, accredited, full-time post-master's program leading to an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) degree. This is a paid position with no tuition fees, designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

An EngD program is on par with a PhD program. The main difference with a PhD is the focus: a PhD is aimed to establish you as an independent researcher and an EngD prepares you for a high-level position in industry.

We’re looking for ambitious and highly motivated graduates to join our upcoming EngD programs.

The EngD programs in Data Science, Software Technology, Automotive Systems Design, and Mechatronic Systems Design within the Jheronimus Academy of Data Science (JADS) ecosystem in ’s-Hertogenbosch are embedded in an unique interdisciplinary environment focused on data, software, systems engineering, and industrial innovation.

What we offer

Our prestigious EngD programs are run in close collaboration with leading companies and organizations such as ASML, Philips, Unilever, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Canon Production Printing, DAF Trucks, and many others. The programs provide top-tier MSc graduates with the opportunity to grow through real-world experience and large-scale interdisciplinary design projects.

Trainees expand and broaden their technical expertise, design capabilities, and professional skills through courses, workshops, and project-based learning. Throughout the program, trainees work on challenges connected to industrial and societal partners. Trainees will be responsible for executing at least one large project at and in close collaboration with one of the companies, public-sector organizations or research consortia.

During the recruitment phase some trainees may already be connected to specific innovation projects or strategic industry challenges, but this depends on the specialization track, the timing and available industrial collaborations. Some projects can be executed together with a single company or within larger consortia involving multiple industrial and academic partners.

More detailed information can be found on our website: 2-year post master technology: Engineering Doctorate (EngD)

The tracks

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at TU/e offers specialized EngD programs in Data Science, Software Technology, Automotive Systems Design, and Mechatronic Systems Design:

1. Data Science

Data Science focuses on designing and developing data-driven and AI-enabled solutions for complex real-world challenges. The program prepares professionals for the capability to extract insights and value from large, heterogeneous datasets across industrial and societal domains.

Trainees learn how to:

Collect, structure, analyze, and interpret complex datasets

Design, develop, and deploy scalable machine learning and AI solutions

Operationalize data products using modern data engineering and MLOps practices

Translate data-driven insights into valuable solutions for stakeholders

The track combines statistics, machine learning, computer science, mathematics, software engineering, and systems thinking with practical business understanding and design methodologies. Trainees work on multidisciplinary projects in domains such as high-tech, manufacturing, logistics, mobility, sustainability, and healthcare systems. Emphasis is placed on designing robust and maintainable AI systems for complex industrial environments, while considering ethical, legal, and societal aspects.

2. Software Technology

Software is essential for almost all modern products and services. Complex high-tech systems, from wafer steppers and medical scanners to advanced vehicles, rely on sophisticated software. As demand for innovation in these systems increases, so does the complexity of the software.

This track focuses on advanced software design and system architecture for software-intensive systems common in high-tech industries. This track prepares you for the demanding requirements of multinational companies in dynamic, technology-driven environments.

3. Automotive / Mechatronic Systems Design

The automotive and mechatronics sectors have become high-tech fields requiring a multidisciplinary approach to product and process innovation. The shift towards smart components and autonomous systems is transforming the industry. The program emphasizes system-level thinking, hardware and software integration, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines.

This track prepares you to address complex design challenges and lead innovation in high-tech settings. You become an expert in developing advanced systems for robotics, automation, manufacturing, and smart mobility solutions.

Job Requirements

We are looking for ambitious and highly talented MSc graduates who aspire to become future technology and innovation leaders. Successful candidates combine scientific rigor, engineering excellence, and the ability to translate knowledge into practical solutions in complex industrial environments.

Applicants should possess:

• A recent, relevant Master of Science (MSc) degree with strong academic performance*
• A solid foundation in their technical discipline and the ability to quickly acquire and apply new knowledge
• Strong engineering skills, demonstrated through the design, development, analysis, or realization of technical systems, models, or solutions relevant to their field
• Experience working independently on a substantial project, preferably demonstrated through an MSc thesis, research project, internship, or industrial collaboration
• A systems-oriented mindset and the ability to understand interactions between technical, organizational, and operational aspects of a problem
• Affinity with industrial innovation and the ambition to create business and societal impact through technology and engineering
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams
• A proactive, independent, and professional attitude, combined with a willingness to continuously learn and develop
• Excellent proficiency in written and spoken English

*Degree Requirements

MSc in Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Mechatronics, Robotics, Systems & Control, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Embedded Systems, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Physics, Automotive Technology, or closely related fields.

Conditions of Employment

• Full-time employment for two years.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale TOIO (€ 3,029).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• To support you during your EngD and to prepare you for the rest of your career, you will have free access to a personal development program for EngD trainees.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About Eindhoven University of Technology

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

About JADS

JADS is a unique cooperation between the Province of North Brabant, the Municipality of ‘s-Hertogenbosch, Tilburg University and Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). Various data science programs are begin offered. From bachelor and master programs, to EngD education and professional education. Besides, JADS helps organizations shape their data driven future.

At JADS, researchers and students work closely with the business community. In addition to education and research, JADS also offers space for innovative, data-driven entrepreneurship and public-private partnerships.

Information

For more information please contact our recruiter Ivo Uitdenbogaart, [email protected].

For detailed information about the tracks, please visit:

https://www.jads.nl/education/engd-program-data-science/

https://www.tue.nl/en/education/graduate-school/engd-software-technology

https://www.tue.nl/en/education/graduate-school/engd-automotive-systems-design

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include:

• A motivation letter outlining your interest in the EngD program at TU/e and explaining why you are a good candidate
• An extended curriculum vitae (CV), including extracurricular activities
• Copies of relevant BSc and MSc diplomas and grade transcripts
• Contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• A description of the project you are most proud of and specifically your accomplishments in this project. (1 page)

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. 
Please note that incomplete applications can’t be processed.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services. 

During the selection process, candidates may also be evaluated to see if their profile fits with ongoing or upcoming industrial projects within the EngD ecosystem.

We look forward to receiving your application at the latest on July 10, 23:59 CET, 2026. 
Applications will be reviewed as soon as possible.