Laser satellite communications holds tremendous potential for global telecommunications access. However, the impact of atmospheric turbulence on laser beam propagation presents a significant technological challenge. This obstacle can be addressed through the implementation of adaptive optics and geographic diversity. Our project's primary objective is to create a comprehensive map detailing the optical channel performance across Europe. This map is crucial for designing ground network technology and estimating communication service availability. Due to the current limitations in understanding and estimating channel performance, we will pioneer novel physics-informed machine learning algorithms to formulate an optical link performance map.

This groundbreaking project comprises two PhD positions and one postdoc position, led by experts in meteorology, machine learning, and laser satellite communications. The focus of this particular postdoc position is to (1) perform state-of-the-art mesoscale and large-eddy simulations of optical turbulence, (2) analyzing a diverse range of observational datasets, including sonic anemometer, scintillometer, and lidar data, (3) develop new methodologies to estimate the refractive index structure parameter (Cn2) from modeled data, (4) present research results at various meetings, conferences, and workshops, (5) publish in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, and (6) mentor two graduate students working on the same project.

This postdoctoral opportunity offers a stimulating and challenging experience, encompassing both numerical modelling and theoretical aspects. It explores two cutting-edge disciplines—optical turbulence modeling and machine learning—within the context of laser satellite communications, with potential applications extending to fields like astronomy.

Must-haves:

• A Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in atmospheric science, meteorology, or a closely related field;
• Working experience with large-scale atmospheric models (e.g., WRF) and/or computational fluid dynamics codes (e.g., OpenFOAM);
• In-depth understanding of boundary-layer meteorology and atmospheric turbulence;
• Proven record in programming skills (e.g., python, matlab, Fortran);
• Proficiency in English;
• Good communication skills;
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary, highly dynamic environment.

Nice-to-haves:

• Background in optical propagation, turbulence modelling, machine learning, or laser satellite communications;
• Some understanding of large-eddy simulation (LES);
• Working knowledge of parallel computing and volume visualization;
• Affinity with experimental data analysis and/or experiments.

Fixed-term contract: 3 years.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

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