Postdoc in Dynamic Regulation of Photosynthesis in Light-acclimated Organisms

DREAM is a PATHFINDER research project involving several academic partners and research institutes. It will introduce disruptive technologies for measuring, monitoring, and enhancing lighting efficiency in controlled environments to improve plants and enable their parsimonious cultivation. To this end, hybrid models (first principles + data-driven models) are being developed for fluctuating illumination. In this context, a model-based controller must be designed to optimize the light modulation (multi-frequency sinewave), improving biomass production while reducing energy resource utilization and saving electricity. We will increase efficiency and productivity in plant growth by fine-tuning lighting conditions based on non-linear dynamic models of plant physiology and environmental dynamics. The postdoc will be in charge of designing a model-based controller that optimizes light modulation to maximize biomass production while minimizing energy resource utilization.

The ideal candidate should have expertise and a relevant track record in advanced control and optimization. The postdoctoral position is initially for one year, with the potential for a one-year extension. The work will be executed at TU/e, collaborating closely with SONY, CNRS, UPOL, and Jülich Institute.

Group Description

The research mission of the Control Systems Group is to master the complexity present in mechatronics, power systems, automotive systems, and industrial processes. The group focuses on fundamental research in model reduction, spatial-temporal systems, Lyapunov methods for real-time control and distributed systems, and system identification. Furthermore, many industrial projects are being carried out in the areas of automotive, process control, wireless sensor networks, and power systems. The group actively participates in the Dutch Institute of Systems and Control (DISC). For more detailed information on the activities of the group, please check http://tue.nl/cs/

We are looking for candidates that match the following profile:

• A PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical /Chemical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or related disciplines.
• Interest and knowledge in topics such as control theory and optimization.
• Good publication record.
• A team player who enjoys coaching PhD and Master students in multicultural teams.
• Good communication and organization skills.
• Excellent English language skills (writing and presenting).

We offer an exciting job in the group Control Systems of the Eindhoven University of Technology:

• A full-time employment for 1 year + possible extension
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. €4,020 max. €5,278).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.