The Numerical Analysis group at the Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics (DIAM) is looking for a motivated PhD candidate to develop, analyze and implement novel finite element methods for the simulation of tokamak reactors.

Tokamaks are plasma confinement devices and are being actively studied because of their potential use as nuclear fusion reactors. The ability to reliably simulate complex plasma dynamics within a tokamak is of great scientific importance as it can lead to an understanding of optimal operational criteria without resorting to expensive experimentation. The development of such simulation methods involves many scientific challenges, and these challenges form the focus of this PhD project.

Specifically, you will develop new numerical methods within the field of isogeometric analysis (a generalization of finite element analysis) to tackle two challenges in the simulation of tokamaks. The first challenge concerns the computational representation of the complex geometry of a tokamak, and the second challenge is the development of stable, accurate and efficient numerical methods for describing plasma dynamics inside a tokamak.

This project will give you a chance to work at the intersection of numerical analysis and geometric modelling in a scientifically stimulating environment, and if you are passionate about diving into interdisciplinary mathematics and using it for solving multiphysics problems, we welcome your application to join DIAM!

At DIAM we also support inclusivity and diversity. We offer an open and safe working environment for employees and students, and you are encouraged to apply regardless of your nationality, cultural background, gender or sexual orientation. 

Basic requirements:

• A master’s (or master-equivalent) degree in Applied Mathematics, Computational Science and Engineering, or a closely related field
• Good interpersonal skills

Specific requirements:

• Strong interest and competence in at least one of the following: numerical analysis, geometric modelling, scientific computing
• Familiarity with the theory of finite elements
• Expertise in programming (e.g., python/Julia) will be a bonus

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2541 per month in the first year to € 3247 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 as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three disciplines - electrical engineering, mathematics and computer science. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make future-proof. We are also working on a world in which humans and computers reinforce each other. We are mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. There is plenty of room here for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1,100 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.