This is a PhD research position, with a limited 48-month duration. You will develop and conduct research on precision motion control for hightech mechatronics applications. The next big step in the industrial revolution, of which control is a vital part, requires higher speed and increased precision. Classical control is not capable of achieving the increasing demands on performance, robustness and efficiency. Existing advanced controllers are complicated and heavily incompatible with industry standards in terms of design and implementation. This project aims to introduce a new control paradigm that overcomes these challenges. 

You will be engaged in the development of novel complex order controllers using nonlinear approaches.

The tasks to be performed include:
• Develop complex order nonlinear reset controllers
• Develop frequency domain analysis for nonlinear controllers with reset
• Develop stability theories for complex order controllers in frequency domain
• Loop-shaping guidelines for designed controllers
• The supervision of MSc student projects related to your own
• Being an inspiring member for the PME department by proactive participation,
• Engaging in the writing of scientific articles and proposals to secure funding for further work on the topic.

Applicants should have the following qualifications:
• Masters and background within the fields of (but not restricted to) Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering and Control Engineering.
• Experience with:
   - Nonlinear Control theories
   - Robust Control theory
   - Loopshaping methods
   - Frequency domain control design.
• Experience or high interest (not mandatory but preferred) with
  - Hands on experimental work (control implementation and prototypings)
  - Fractional order control
  - Reset Control.
• A good publication record.
• Good skill in writing scientific articles.
• High motivation for teamwork and good communication skills.

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 http://www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The 3mE Faculty trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits.  

The Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering (PME) focuses on developing knowledge and methods for small, innovative high-precision devices and systems, such as precision equipment and scientific instrumentation for the high-tech industry. Increasing miniaturisation and function density, and improving precision, speed and reliability are the key topics in our work. Our approach is multidisciplinary, fundamental and inspired by industry needs. PME delivers skilled professionals and contributes knowledge to the open innovation environment to support leadership of the High-Tech Systems Industry. We focus on exploiting scientific and engineering concepts to create technologies for the extreme miniaturisation of high-tech systems and for improving accuracy and reliability of scientific instrumentation. 

You will be working in a challenging international environment, with access to state-of-the art facilities for high-tech system development. You will participate in a large team with strong industrial and academic collaborations.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me