Postdoc System Engineeering for Floating Wind Farms

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft); Delft; On-site; EUR 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

TU Delft is seeking a post-doctoral researcher to advance multi-disciplinary design analysis and optimisation (MDAO) for floating wind farms. You will develop and apply MDAO software to assess supply chain readiness and logistics for large-scale deployment, collaborating with researchers from TU Delft and partner institutions.

The role requires a PhD in a relevant field, strong Python and Git skills, and experience with open-source development.

Qualifications

• PhD in system engineering, applied sciences, wind energy, or related field.
• Fundamental knowledge and application of MDAO.

Responsibilities

• Perform multi-disciplinary design analysis and optimisation (MDAO) for floating wind farms.
• Develop and disseminate the MDAO software and apply it to logistics analysis.
• Collaborate with TU Delft researchers and industry partners within the HybridLabs framework.
• Contribute to research dissemination and outreach activities.

Skills

MDAO

Python

Git

Systems engineering

Supply chain

English communication

Education

PhD in system engineering

Tools

FAIR

Open-source tools

Job description

Job description

Are you passionate about offshore wind energy? Apply for a Post-doctoral research position in Floating Offshore Wind Energy and help accelerate the supply chain readiness in this area.

Job description

Floating offshore wind turbines are widely regarded as a key technology to accelerate renewable power generation and reach climate targets. Installing a wind turbine on a floating structure comes with opportunities as well as new engineering challenges. In the Dutch-funded project HybridLabs (https://hybridlabs.tudelft.nl), we accelerate the development of innovations in offshore and floating renewable energy technologies. A key bottleneck to the implementation of these innovations is the system integration of different actors/needs and the supply chain readiness.

In this context, we are looking for a post-doctoral researcher to work on multi-disciplinary design analysis and optimisation (MDAO) for floating wind farms in different regions. The tasks involve both the development and dissemination of our MDAO software and its application to assess logistical aspects of the large-scale deployment of floating wind farms. Key research questions include: (i) what are the supply chain requirements and bottlenecks for large-scale deployment of floating wind farms, (ii) how can the system be optimised, and (iii) how much can technical, monetary, and schedule risks be reduced or mitigated.

As a researcher, you will work among diverse and energetic peers which offers a stimulating and inclusive working environment for developing your research and academic skills. In addition, due to the highly multidisciplinary nature of this project, your research will contribute to and benefit from others and you will work in teams with other researchers from TU Delft and other institutions within the HybridLabs framework. You will also have the opportunity to work closely with companies as well as help strengthening the European ecosystem in this area. Finally, there will be opportunities to use the MDAO framework for outreach activities.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive and progressive workplace culture built on respect, community and wellbeing. We aim to attract outstanding global talent from all backgrounds and recognise that science and engineering benefit from diverse perspectives. We particularly encourage applications from women, who are currently underrepresented at this level within our university.

Job requirements

PhD. degree in system engineering, applied sciences, wind energy, or a related field.

Fundamental knowledge and application of MDAO (multi-disciplinary analysis and optimisation).

Good knowledge of scientific computing, object-oriented programming (e.g., Python), and version control (e.g., git). Experience with FAIR and open-source software development is a plus.

Familiar with the system and/or supply chain challenges for offshore/floating wind energy. Experience with supply chain modelling for offshore/floating wind energy is a plus.

Curiosity to engage with multi-disciplinary stakeholders. Experience with collaboration across institutions is a plus.

Attitude to teamwork and excellent communication skills in spoken and written English, combined with demonstrated creativity, self-learning skills and an inclination towards research.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years. Temporary.
• A job of 38-40 hours per week.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.