General project description:

Wind farm control and optimization are fundamental research areas, where the major challenges arise from the complex and coupled fluid dynamics, inexact environmental models and uncertain interference between turbines, especially because upstream turbines generate an aerodynamic wake that reduces the wind speed and increases turbulence for the downstream wind turbines. In this complex scenario, the scientific aim of this research project is to devise an online optimization framework for multi-agent, uncertain and dynamic environments that is applicable to offshore wind farm optimization, towards achieving the most efficient trade off between maximal power generation of the wind farm and minimal mechanical stress of the individual turbines.

We will model the wind farm optimization problem as a time-varying stochastic optimization problem, where both the objective function and the constraints depend on time. Due to the problem variability, we will adopt the solution concept of tracking optimality over time in terms of no-regret policies and minimal asymptotic tracking error. Next, we will develop the class zeroth-order prediction-correction online optimization algorithms under minimal communication architecture between a central control station and the wind turbines.

We are looking for 1 talented, outstanding Postdoc researcher with a PhD degree (or close to completion) in Systems and Control or Applied Mathematics, or related field, with background and/or interest in Systems and Control, Optimization, Game Theory, and with good command of the English language (knowledge of Dutch is not required).

The starting date is flexible - ideally March 2023.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount 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. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

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 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. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.