The Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) has a vacancy for an

Assistant/Associate Professor in Control of structured networks with applications in smart energy systems 

in the Control Systems (CS) group of the Department of Electrical Engineering. 

Current day developments in modelling, control and optimization of dynamical systems require the handling of structured and (spatially) distributed systems. Modular built-up of systems, as well as structured connections of subsystems, ask for modelling and control tools that effectively utilize the distributed / structured character in the related modelling, control and optimization problems.

With the current developments in distributed power generation as well as the increase of renewable energy resources (wind, solar), there is an increasing demand on the proper handling of dynamical phenomena  in power distribution networks. The introduction of smart  energy systems in electricity grids (smart grids), sustainable cities and building automation requires advanced analysis and synthesis tools for design and optimal operation of structured dynamic networks. However also in other domains as industrial process control and in high-tech mechatronic systems the handling of structured and distributed systems is an important challenge for the systems and control domain.

To further strengthen the dynamics and control activities in this domain in the electrical engineering  department, a position is created for an assistant/associate professor with a background in systems and control and a strong interest in energy systems technology. The prospective candidate should enjoy operating in a multidisciplinary environment, in particular in relation with energy systems groups.

Control systems group
The Control Systems group has a long tradition in modeling, system identification and control of dynamical systems. With an international staff and close cooperation with industrial research partners, the group covers four technology domains: industrial production processes, high-tech mechatronic systems, power networks  and automotive systems.  The basis of systems and control research and competence in the group is in system identification, model approximation, (nonlinear) model predictive control, spatial-temporal systems, networked and event-driven control, and model-based optimization. The group provides education modules in the BSc and MSc programmes of Electrical Engineering, Automotive Systems and the MSc programme Systems and Control. The group also actively participates in the PhD programme of the Dutch Institute of Systems and Control (DISC). Currently the group consists of about 40 people, among which 7 full-time academics. There are extensive links with industrial research partners, and there two awarded ERC projects on dynamic network identification and on identification and control synthesis of LPV systems. 

As assistant/associate professor your role will be to:

Perform fundamental and applied research at the forefront of the systems and control domain;

Publish in renowned scientific journals and conferences;

Realize technological projects at the forefront of  energy systems technology;

Set up and teach inspiring courses and lab projects in the BSc, MSc and PhD programs at TU/e;

Supervise PhD and MSc  students as well as BSc student projects;

Maintain and expand an effective network of cooperation partners in academia, institutes and industry

Contribute to acquiring funding for research projects from (inter)national research funding agencies.

We are looking for a candidate who meets the following requirements:

A research profile in systems and control aspects of distributed and structured systems, and affinity with developments in energy systems and networks.

Affinity with both the theoretical and the applied aspects of modelling and control of smart energy systems in an electrical engineering context.

PhD and preferably some years of postdoc experience;

Ambition for teaching and improving teaching performance by taking part in educational training programmes;

Excellent English language skills and for international applicants willingness to acquire knowledge of the Dutch language;

Good communication and didactical skills; team-player-attitude.

Ability to develop an independent academic and recognized position;

 We offer:

An appointment on a level that matches the CV and past experience of the candidate.

Assistant professors are appointed for five years in a development track. The development track can lead to a permanent appointment with the prospect to become an associate professor. 

A challenging job in a dynamic and ambitious university and a stimulating internationally renowned research environment;

A gross monthly salary is offered for an assistant professor between EUR 3475, - and EUR 5405, - maximum and for an associate professor EUR 5861,- maximum. An offer will be based on your knowledge and experience. Moreover 8% bonus share (holiday supplement) and an end of year allowance of 8.3% is provided annually;

A broad, attractive package of fringe benefits (including an excellent technical infrastructure, child care, savings schemes, and excellent sports facilities).

A management development program, specially designed for assistant/associate professors.