From concentrated solar power plants to rocket engines, energy conversion systems are continually re-engineered to perform ever better. Often this involves fluids being pushed into the supercritical region, where highly non-ideal thermodynamic effects are at play. Yet, our fundamental understanding of flow physics at such conditions lags behind to successfully realize these exciting engineering applications.

In this exciting project, funded by the European Research Council, we will investigate the processes on how a laminar fluid becomes turbulent if the fluid is in the supercritical region. Preliminary results indicate, that at certain conditions, it is hardly possible to make a laminar flow turbulent. This has not been observed so far, and in this particular project we will use a combination of analytical approaches, numerical simulations (direct numerical simulation) and experiments to investigate this observation in detail.

Department
Research in the Process and Energy Department focusses on energy and process technology in a mechanical engineering context. Our objective is to develop processes to support the transition to renewable energy sources, by making existing processes more efficient and developing novel green technologies. Research activities within the department cover the range from full equipment scale down to the molecular scale. Our laboratories have several experimental facilities that are unique in the world.

For more information see: Fluid dynamics of energy systems team

We are looking for an excellent Postdoc candidate with a strong background in flow stability analysis, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, or a related discipline. As a Postdoc researcher you will be responsible for analysing the stability of flows with fluids in the highly non-ideal supercritical fluid region, using analytical approaches. You are expected to collaborate in a team of PhD students who will perform complementary numerical simulations and experimental investigations.

To apply, you should have the following qualifications:

• PhD in mechanical engineering or a related area, with a strong background fluid mechanics and flow stability analysis.
• Proven experience in the field of flow stability as well as strong mathematical skills.
• Intrinsic motivation for research and a good publication record.
• Ease with teamwork in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Proficiency in English and excellent communication skills.

Fixed-term contract: 2.5 years.

• A temporary contract of 2.5 years.
• A salary according to the Collective Labor Agreement of the Dutch Universities (salary indication: €3389-€4274), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers.
• Flexible working week.
• Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the Health Coach Program.

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. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers both in business and in a social context. TU Delft offers 16 Bachelor’s and 32 Master’s programmes to more than 23,000 students. Our scientific staff consists of 3,500 staff members and 2,800 PhD candidates. Together we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering.