PhD in Multiscale Modeling of Dynamic Pore Spaces

Introduction

Are you ready to face the challenges of the energy transition? Do you often find yourself fascinated by the multiscale complexity of real-world engineering problems?

In this project you will develop advanced multiphase transport models for porous systems, bridging the gap from pore scale physics to engineering-scale simulation tools. Sounds interesting? Then this position might just be the one for you!

Job Description

Porous media play a central role in many technologies relevant to the energy transition. They sit in the electrodes of electrolyzers, reservoirs for CO2 sequestration or salt hydrate packed beds for heat storage to name a few. In all of these applications, those materials experience a complex combination of fluid flow and interface phenomena, which dominate heat- and mass-transfer limitations.

Traditionally, we reduce the complexity of the underlying models by assuming idealized, static pore space geometries. In reality, those pore spaces are adapting during their application, i.e. due to heat expansion, sintering or precipitation of dissolved components and dissolution of the solid matrix. These pore space adaptions are often strongly and non-linearly coupled to the relevant transport phenomena, significantly influencing the overall performance and stability of the material.

As PhD candidate you will develop a model framework which dynamically links the pore space dynamics with the pore flow phenomena and vice versa. The topics you will delve into include:

• Upscaling of multiphysics transport phenomena
• Film formation and efflorescence
• Multiphase Computational Fluid Dynamics
• High-performance computing

Job Requirements

A talented, motivated and enthusiastic researcher with

• A master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or similar is required
• Knowledge of at least one programming language is expected: Python, Matlab, Fortran, C++, …
• Experience and/or keen interest in transport modeling of porous systems
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team
• Fluent in spoken and written English.

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 four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. 
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881).  
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. 
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. 
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.  
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager David Rieder, d.r.rieder@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact Hind Boulgalag, HR advisor, h.boulgalag@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

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 by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

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.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.