Within the Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics (DIAM), Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Sciences of Delft University of Technology, we offer a PhD position in the optimization group for a duration of four years. The PhD candidate will be supervised by David de Laat.

This position is in the context of the project "Semidefinite programming hierarchies for point configurations". In this project we use convex optimization in combination with techniques from harmonic analysis and algebra to tackle difficult problems in discrete geometry and related areas. We are looking for candidates with a solid background in mathematics, and who are interested in learning more about optimization, harmonic analysis, and representation theory. Interaction with other members of DIAM and external collaborators is encouraged.

The candidate is expected to finish their studies with a PhD thesis and disseminate results through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences. The position entails a teaching load of 15%.

Department
Research at Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics (DIAM) is conducted in six research groups: Analysis, Applied Probability, Mathematical Physics, Numerical Analysis, Optimisation, and Statistics. Our research on the construction and analysis of mathematical models related to science and engineering is both fundamental and applied in nature and is often inspired by technical and societal challenges. We have, for instance, tackled complex mathematical problems to develop a model for predicting the flow of ash pollution after a volcano eruption. To come up with innovative solutions we maintain intensive contact with other TU Delft departments, technological institutes and research departments.

Besides research, education is an important cornerstone of our department. We teach the Applied Mathematics BSc and MSc programmes, as well as mathematics courses within other programmes at TU Delft, and national programmes such as “MasterMath”. Together with KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden) and the Technical University of Berlin (Germany) we have also initiated the international joint Master’s programme COSSE (Computer Simulations for Science and Engineering).

We value the great atmosphere at our institute and pride ourselves on our sense of community and the spirit of “getting things done together”, which we combine with mutual appreciation for individual success. To foster interaction and cooperation, we organize lunch seminars where colleagues from the various sections discuss their work, and we arrange an annual social activity where all staff members interact informally to get to know each other in a different setting. Our open and transparent way of communicating is reflected in the way we interact with one another and forms the basis for the way we work together to help each other achieve our goals as a team.

We are looking for excellent candidates with the following qualifications, knowledge, and skills:

• A MSc degree in mathematics or applied mathematics.
• A solid background in mathematics and interested in learning more about optimization, harmonic analysis, and representation theory.
• Interested in computer programming.
• Self-motivation, independence, and the ability to work with others.
• Proficiency in English for effective communication, writing, and presentation.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three disciplines - electrical engineering, mathematics and computer science. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make future-proof. We are also working on a world in which humans and computers reinforce each other. We are mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. There is plenty of room here for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1,100 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.