Research group leader Fusion Energy Integrated Modelling (x/f/m)

for core-edge integrated tokamak modelling who can lead a vigorous research effort in the development and application of core-edge integrated tokamak modelling tools.

As research group leader you will be responsible for developing your own research line in synergy with the other group leaders of the DIFFER Fusion Energy department. You will guide your group members, and control the budget and planning. You will be able to attract national and international funding for your research and to develop a leading role in the EUROfusion integrated modelling activities. You are responsible for the quality of the projects within the group and publications in leading international journals.

We are looking for an early to mid-career researcher with experience in development and application of state of the art scrape-off-layer and divertor modelling tools (SOLPS-ITER or similar) and / or core-edge integrated modelling tools (JINTRAC or a similar code suite). Some experience in reduced model design, plasma turbulence modelling, or the use of Machine Learning for the development of fast surrogate models will be an advantage. Your research will be able to create the bridge between the physics of tokamak divertors and the experiments in our in-house linear divertor simulators (Magnum-PSI and UPP).

Applicants should have a PhD or equivalent in a relevant field of research (physics / materials science & engineering) and a proven track record in the field of fusion energy or closely related topics. Naturally you have excellent communication and leadership skills. You also have an excellent knowledge of the English language and you are (willing to become) proficient in the Dutch language.

This position is for 0,8 - 1 FTE, will be for a period of 2 years with possible permanent contract at proven suitability and is graded in pay scale 12 -14, depending on level of education and experience. The position will be based at DIFFER (www.differ.nl) and the working location will be at TU Eindhoven. When fulfilling a position at DIFFER, you will have an employee status at NWO. You can participate in all the employee benefits NWO offers. We have a number of regulations that support employees in finding a good work-life balance. At DIFFER we believe that a workforce diverse in gender, age and cultural background is key to performing excellent research. We therefore strongly encourage everyone to apply. More information on working at NWO can be found at the NWO website (https://www.nwo-i.nl/en/working-at-nwo-i/jobsatnwoi/)

The Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research (DIFFER) performs leading fundamental research on materials, processes, and systems for a global sustainable energy infrastructure. We work in close partnership with (inter)national academia and industry. Our user facilities are open to industry and university researchers. As an institute of the Dutch Research Council (NWO) DIFFER plays a key role in fundamental research for the energy transition.

We use a multidisciplinary approach applicable on two key areas, solar fuels for the conversion and storage of renewable energy and nuclear fusion - as a clean source of energy.