He is trained in theoretical physics at the University of Amsterdam and holds a PhD in philosophy of quantum mechanics from Utrecht University. At Delft University of Technology he switched to the philosophy of technology with a focus on analyses of design methods and of descriptions of technical products. He co-authored a volume on Philosophy and Design (2008), a monograph on Technical Functions (2010), and the textbook A Philosophy of Technology (2011). Vermaas is editor-in-chief and founder of the Philosophy of Engineering and Technology book series.