The NWO-funded Renewable Energy Forecasts from Observations and high-Resolution Modeling (REFORM) project aims to improve weather forecasts of solar radiation and wind up to 6 hours ahead by introducing a novel, hybrid approach which makes use of the turbulence resolving GRASP model as well as observations to obtain the best possible estimate of the initial atmospheric state in terms of wind, temperature, humidity and clouds. GRASP is an ultrafast atmospheric large-eddy model that has been developed by the company Whiffle and runs on GPUs. The observations will in part be taken from the national measurement program 'Ruisdael' as well as from new experimental field campaigns in the vicinity of wind farms.

We are looking for 2 PhD students with a strong background in atmospheric physics and an interest in either wind or solar radiation. You will assess the current skill of the GRASP forecasts that use ECWMF weather forecast results as input for its initialization. You will participate and analyze the measurements from the field campaigns. You will use the observations to improve the assessment of the initial atmospheric state conditions and as a means to validate the forecasts as obtained with GRASP. The results will be presented at international conferences and published in outstanding scientific journals. 

We are looking for an enthusiastic, curiosity-driven candidate who enjoys modeling as well as data analysis of observations. You must hold a scientific degree (Master's or equivalent). As a suitable candidate, you may come from a range of backgrounds including, but not limited to, Physics, Atmospheric Science (Meteorology or Climate Physics), Computational Science and Applied Mathematics. You have prior knowledge (or experience) in modelling and programming, including data analysis and visualization (e.g. in Python), and proficiency in a Linux environment is an advantage. You should communicate fluently in English (oral and written). As part of your duties you will actively participate in teaching activities. You will work at the university, but in close cooperation with staff members from the project partners Whiffle and Greenchoice. 

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2434 per month in the first year to € 3111 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

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.

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Faculty Civil Engineering & Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource depletion, urbanisation and the availability of clean water, conducted  in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to achieve our goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

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