We are looking for 2 talented, outstanding PhD candidates with theoretical background and interest in Fault Diagnosis, and/or Fault Tolerant Control, Wind Energy, Structural Health Monitoring.

The candidate will conduct theoretical and applied research on offshore wind farms subjected to faults and structural degradation, in particular due to corrosion. The research will develop tools for modelling the dynamic behaviour and the failure mechanisms of offshore wind turbines, for estimating their current health level and for implementing load limiting control algorithms that take into account the health status of single turbines while maximising the wind farm total power production. Such algorithms will be tested in simulation, on scale models and on actual offshore test sites.

The position is in the context of the research project “O&M tools integrating accurate structural health in offshore energy” (WATEREYE), funded by the European Commission under the call H2020-LC-SC3-2019-RES-TwoStages. This position is located in the Data Driven Control section within DCSC. Within this section of DCSC the focus is on the analysis and decision making for large-scale (in size) multi-disciplinary dynamical systems. It addresses the question about what model complexity is necessary for all individual system components in order to use data-driven models for reliable and robust model based diagnostics, parameter estimation, monitoring and control. degradation, in particular due to corrosion. The research will develop tools for modelling the dynamic behaviour and the failure mechanisms of offshore wind turbines, for estimating their current health level and for implementing load limiting control algorithms that take into account the health status of single turbines while maximising the wind farm total power production. Such algorithms will be tested in simulation, on scale models and on actual offshore test sites.

The candidates should possess or be close to completing  an M.Sc. degree in Systems and Control, or Applied Mathematics, Electrical or Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or related field, and with good command of the English language (knowledge of Dutch is not required).

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

The 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.

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 Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The 3mE Faculty trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and
materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits.
https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me

The department Delft Center for Systems and Control (DCSC) of the faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering, coordinates the education and research activities in systems and control at Delft University of Technology. The Centers' research mission is to conduct fundamental research in systems dynamics and control, involving dynamic modelling, advanced control theory, optimisation and signal analysis. The research is motivated by advanced technology development in physical imaging systems, renewable energy, robotics and transportation systems. More information: https://www.dcsc.tudelft.nl