PhD Researcher on Compact Modelling of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs)

**Job Description**
We are seeking a motivated PhD researcher to drive the heat transition as an essential part of the energy transition, contributing to the EmPowerED project. This project aims to accelerate and scale up the development of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs), which are urban areas generating more energy than they consume, with carbon-neutral heating and cooling as a core element. The PhD project focuses on developing simulation models for individual physical components of a PED, particularly residential heating systems, to be used as building blocks for integrated PED models. The principal goal is to develop component models with greater physical accuracy and predictive capability by employing state-of-the-art methods, including reduced-order models (ROMs) and input-output models derived from high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), as well as data-based models determined through system/parameter identification and machine learning. The key challenge involves balancing physical accuracy with computational efficiency for incorporation into integrated PED models.

**Skills & Abilities**
• Strong affinity with first-principles mathematical modelling of thermal systems, model reduction, system identification, and machine learning
• Programming skills for development and implementation of computational models
• Strong analytical and systems-thinking abilities
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) in English
• Team-work attitude
• Passion for the energy transition and its multidisciplinary challenges (technology, economics, and policy)
• Knowledge on energy transition and Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) (Nice to have)
• Experience with working in a multi-disciplinary environment (Nice to have)
• Working knowledge of Dutch as a second language (Nice to have)

**Qualifications**
Required Degree(s) in:
• Mechanical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Energy Sciences
• Applied Physics
• Scientific Computing
• Related field

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