PostDoc on Uncertainty quantification framework for time series forecasting in smart buildings

Short introduction

Are you eager to shape the future of smart, sustainable buildings as a post-doctoral researcher? Join us at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) and contribute to cutting-edge research!

The Building Services group at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher to investigate uncertainties in time series forecasting for smart building applications. Your research will focus on uncertainty quantification for applications such as Automated Fault Detection and Diagnosis (AFDD), Model Predictive Control (MPC), and energy flexibility.

Job Description

The global energy transition and ambitious climate targets demand innovative solutions to enhance building energy efficiency and grid responsiveness. All the aspects (such as AFDD, MPC etc.) of these promising solutions being researched contain uncertainty as a common theme which plays a crucial role in achieving success with these solutions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Quantify uncertainty of time series forecasting algorithms using conformal prediction.
2. Explore the feasibility of conformal prediction for MPC, AFDD and energy flexibility.
3. Co-supervise a PhD candidate working on dynamic control strategies for optimization of occupant comfort and energy flexibility.
4. Teach a course on data analytics techniques for smart building applications to master students and grade their assignments.

Job Requirements

Need to have:

• A completed or about to complete PhD degree in the domain of building services engineering/HVAC engineering.
• You have strong programming skills using tools like Python and/or MATLAB.
• You have prior experience of working with big data analytics, time series forecasting models and machine learning.
• You have strong motivations for research in smart building applications.
• You are a team player and enjoy working with a diverse, interdisciplinary research team with good organization, collaboration, and communication skills.
• You are proficient in both written and spoken English (at least C1 level).

Pros:

• You have previous experience of designing, setting up and performing experiments in living laboratories.
• You have previous experience of working on uncertainty quantification for time series forecasting in the building services engineering/HVAC engineering domain, preferably with conformal prediction.
• You have previous experience of teaching courses relating to data analytics and machine learning techniques for smart building applications.
• You are proficient in or have an affinity with relevant building performance simulation tools/models.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for 2 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,060 max. € 5,331).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Dr. it. Rick Kramer (R.P.Kramer@tue.nl).

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services BE (HRServices.BE@tue.nl).

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application using the apply-button. The application should include a:

• One page-cover letter addressing your interests and describing how your experience and professional goals fit this post-doctoral position.
• A research statement (600 words maximum) demonstrating your ideas on how to approach the problem, what techniques to use, etc.
• A detailed CV - highlighting publications, examples of projects and/or achievements, and earlier experience that proves skills relevant to this PhD project.
• One or two notable publications/writing samples you have authored or research projects you have contributed to (please write down clearly your contribution in case of group work).
• Contact information for two references.

Applicants must demonstrate their English proficiency level (C1 level). Native speakers and candidates with an English-taught Master’s degree are exempt from this requirement.

The post-doctoral researcher is expected to start on 1st September 2025 with some flexibility.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.