Optimization techniques like linear and semidefinite programming find applications in many practical fields, but more and more also within mathematics, for instance as tool in proving theorems in combinatorics, geometry, etc. In this project, you as a PhD student will explore the use of optimization techniques to tackle problems in extremal geometry such as the sphere-packing problem, the kissing number problem, and other related questions. As PhD student, you will be supervised by Dr. Fernando M. de Oliveira. Filho of the optimization group at TU Delft. The project should offer you an opportunity to learn a great deal about optimization and its applications to geometry and combinatorics; there is moreover the opportunity to conduct independent research into topics of your interest. The position also offers generous funds for travelling.

For more information on the topics considered in this project, check out "PhD student position" in the website https://diamweb.ewi.tudelft.nl/~fmario. 

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

• MSc and BSc degrees in Mathematics, Computer Science, or related fields.
• A solid background in mathematics and willingness to learn more about functional analysis, harmonic analysis, and representation theory.
• Experience in computer programming and willingness to learn more about it.
• 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. The 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.

Technische Universiteit Delft

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.

Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

Research at the Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics (DIAM) centres around the analysis of mathematical models arising in science and engineering. This research is both fundamental and applied in nature, and is often inspired by technical applications. The department plays an active role in translating research results into concrete, practical applications. It maintains intensive contacts with other TU Delft departments, the major technological institutes, and the research laboratories of major companies. Within its own subject field, the department provides teaching for the Applied Mathematics BSc and MSc programmes, and also contributes to the teaching of mathematics courses within other academic programmes at the TU Delft and within national programmes such as “MasterMath”.

The Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics consists of six research groups: Analysis, Mathematical Physics, Numerical Analysis, Applied Probability, Statistics, and Optimisation. More information about the Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics can be found at www.ewi.tudelft.nl/en/the-faculty/departments/applied-mathematics/.   

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) is known worldwide for its high academic quality and the social relevance of its research programmes. The faculty’s excellent facilities accentuate its international position in teaching and research. Within this interdisciplinary and international setting the faculty employs more than 1100 employees, including about 400 graduate students and about 2100 students. Together they work on a broad range of technical innovations in the fields of sustainable energy, telecommunications, microelectronics, embedded systems, computer and software engineering, interactive multimedia and applied mathematics.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/eemcs/the-faculty/