This temporary Post-Doc position is part of the IEBB MMIP 3 research project on Digitalisation of the Renovation Process, which was granted by the Dutch Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). As part of this large project, this position focuses on developing and testing a computational workflow to optimize (and 3D print) high-performance building components improving passive climate design and use of solar energy toward natural gas-free buildings. This workflow will allow to parametrically generate multiple design configurations computationally optimized for energy-related performance and let the final users choose a preferred customized solution. The post-doc will be the main researcher to develop this workflow. (S)he will be supervised by the staff of the chair Design Informatics, and will collaborate with other TU Delft staff members, TU Eindhoven and industry partners.

Among the activities, the post-doc will:

1. develop background studies;
2. develop the customized digital workflow for fast parametric optimization (with integration of 3D printing constraints);
3. integrate digital interaction techniques to include users’ preferences;
4. test on a case study including preliminary 3D printing;
5. develop/co-author outputs for reporting and dissemination.

We are looking for an expert who can work with advanced computational techniques (including computational intelligence) to develop a digital workflow applicable in practice; who has a great understanding of Building Physics and is skilled in simulations; and who can quickly relate to 3D printing production. 

Applicants should have:

• a PhD degree in a discipline such as Building Technology, Computer Science, Building Physics, Energy Engineering, Computational Design, Industrial Design, or other related discipline;
• knowledge on Computational Design methods, techniques and tools, especially related to buildings' , and building components' passive climate design;
• proven skills in working with, and programming in Multiphysics Simulations Software and in McNeel Rhinoceros with its parametric plugin Grasshopper;
• proven skills in Multidisciplinary Multiobjective Optimisation, Machine Learning and Surrogate models;
• scripting and programming skills;
• interest and track record in research and innovative developments;
• good communication skills and a good spoken and written English (understanding of Dutch is an advantage).

Fixed-term contract: until 31-12-2021.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

Technische Universiteit Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Faculty Architecture & the Built Environment

Since its foundation 110 years ago, the Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment has built up a solid international reputation for training architects, urban planners and designers, as well as for its research portfolio and coaching of PhD candidates. With around 2600 students and 500 staff members, with around 230 FTEs devoted to academic positions, our faculty is one of the largest of Delft University of Technology and one of the most prestigious architecture and the built environment faculties globally. Traditionally, the faculty has prioritised high-quality training in design and research in the field of the built environment. Over 40 chairs cover a wide range of academic areas in design, process and technology, which together cover the entire field of the built environment. The faculty has a budget of around €38 million, of which approximately €7 million is sourced indirectly and from contracts with third parties.

The department of Architectural Engineering + Technology is positioned between ‘traditional’ civil engineering and architectural design disciplines. Architectural Engineering and Technology connects both extremes, but more than this, it forms the new core of design for the built environment of the future, with sensitivity for aesthetics, health, heritage, sustainability, biodiversity and other values, and with sufficient technical knowledge to enable innovation in numerous fields.

TOI | Design Informatics
The chair of Design Informatics innovates and exploits computational tools, methods and techniques to enable the integration of physical aspects (structural, thermal and acoustic). The chair research mainly focuses on Performance Based Design in which the computational methods and techniques have been integrated into the entire spectrum from concept design to demolition by a collaborative environment. More information can be found at http://designinformatics.bk.tudelft.nl/.