Summary
The Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is offering a PhD position focused on the adaptive optimization and control of offshore energy systems. This project aims to integrate renewable energy into existing offshore oil and gas facilities during their phase-out period, reducing environmental impact. The research will develop new adaptation methods by merging online data-driven modeling with optimization-based techniques to facilitate the transition to energy neutrality, building on existing control infrastructure.
PhD Scholarship: Adaptive Optimization and Control of Offshore Energy Systems at TU Delft
Designation
PhD Candidate
Research Area
- Adaptive Optimization
- Control Systems
- Offshore Energy Systems
- Renewable Energy Integration
- Process Modelling and Control
- Data-Driven Modelling
Location
Delft, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification
- MSc degree in Systems and Control, Chemical Engineering, or a similar field (essential).
- Prior experience with optimization algorithms (essential).
- Prior experience with process modelling and control (desirable).
- Prior experience with offshore energy (desirable).
- Strong collaboration, communication, and writing skills.
- English proficiency at a level suitable for academic communication, participation in doctoral courses, and scientific writing (refer to Graduate School Admission Requirements for details).
Scholarship Description
The PhD candidate will join the group of Dr. Marta Zagorowska at the Delft Center for Systems and Control (DCSC) within the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. The project addresses the challenge of integrating renewables into existing offshore energy infrastructure by developing practical, optimization-based control solutions that adapt to changing conditions and equipment degradation.
Teaching activities, such as supervising workgroups, lab sessions, assisting in courses, or mentoring students, will be part of the PhD trajectory, not exceeding 20% of the total appointment averaged over the PhD period.
Conditions of Employment:
- Duration: 4-year period, structured as an initial 1.5-year contract with a go/no-go assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional 2.5-year contract.
- Salary: Gross monthly salary ranging from €3204 (1st year) to €4051 (4th year) based on a full-time contract (38 hours).
- Benefits: 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- Enrollment: Enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School, providing a supportive research environment and a Doctoral Education Programme for skill development.
- Additional Perks: Customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, monthly work costs contribution, flexible work schedules, and relocation support for international employees (including a Dual Career Programme for accompanying partners).
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online via the application button by the specified deadline. The application should include the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter (addressed to Dr. Marta Zagorowska)
- Copies of university degrees and transcripts for BSc and MSc programmes
Please note that applications sent by email or post will not be processed. TU Delft conducts a risk assessment as part of the recruitment process to prevent unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge.
Last Date for Apply
22 October 2026
Apply Link
