The MENENS project develops adaptable energy system solutions for ships with methanol as a fuel with a broad consortium across the Dutch maritime sector, from fleet owner to ship designer and from shipyard to (specialist) supplier. In this project, Delft University of Technology performs applied and fundamental research into methanol engine technology, methanol reforming for fuel cells, and integration of methanol engines, fuel cells and batteries in DC systems and in ships. The researchers, consisting of 7 PhD positions, and an experienced supervision team of Delft University and Technology and the Netherlands Defence Academy, develop models, methodologies, control algorithms and concept designs for methanol energy systems.

This research position will be responsible for the development, evaluation and use of models for the behaviour of methanol spark ignition engines and the use of these models within the research group for the prediction of the behaviour of the methanol energy system as a whole. The initial work will take place at the engine lab of the Netherlands Defence Academy, in close cooperation with the research group at Delft University of Technology. The researcher will model and evaluate the behaviour of methanol spark ignition engines and the effect evaporation variation, ignition timing and waste heat recovery, in order to propose improvement to engine performance. To investigate the effect of waster heat recovery, cooperation is required with LPS twin turbine, who delive the waste heat recovery system to the lab and perform trials with the system. The initial work will lead to a validated model for a methanol spark ignition engine that can be used in the further project.

Later in the project, the developed methanol engine model will be used in cooperation with other researchers in the TU Delft team and with MARIN zero lab to predict the behaviour of the energy system as a whole and develop design and control strategies for the methanol energy system. For this, the physical scaled zero lab and the virtual zero lab of MARIN will be used. Moreover, full scale system behaviour of electrical propulsion can be validated in the Fugro fieldlab and full scale system behaviour of mechanical propulsion can be validated in the Wagenborg fieldlab. This will then result in accurate prediction and digital twins, including design and control methodologies for the behaviour of energy systems, for the fieldlabs and for the future use cases in the project, consisting of seagoing working vessels, inland workboats, towing vessels, mega yachts, offshore work vessels, short sea cargo vessels and dredgers.

We are seeking an outstanding and enthusiastic PhD candidate who has expertise and/or interest in one or more of the following areas: thermodynamic engine modelling, fundamental thermodynamics, novel application of data analysis and machine learning techniques, computational fluid dynamics, or similar areas. You have obtained an MSc or an equivalent degree or expect to obtain an MSc very soon related to these areas (mechanical engineering, marine engineering, thermodynamics, mathematics, or other related fields). Good spoken and written English and the ability to work in a team are mandatory.

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.

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? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.