Postdoc (m/f/x) to develop computational models for electric breakdown of gases

Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI, the Dutch national research institute for mathematics and computer science) has a vacancy in the research group on Multiscale Dynamics for

a Postdoc (m/f/x) to develop computational models for electric breakdown of gases

Job description
Electric gas discharges occur in nature, most prominently in air in the form of lightning and its less visible precursors. Similar gas discharges occur in high-voltage equipment, such as the switchgear used in electric grids. Our transition to sustainable electric energy requires major extensions of this grid. However, switchgear and other high-voltage equipment currently often operate with SF6 gas, which is the worst greenhouse gas known. Within the project, we investigate electric discharges in “green” alternatives to SF6. For further information, see https://homepages.cwi.nl/~ebert/2023-ERCIM-News.pdf

We are seeking a postdoc to develop computational models of electrical breakdown of gases. Breakdown occurs in several stages: streamer discharges form, some of them can turn into leaders due to gas heating, eventually resulting in a spark. Simulating all these stages in detail is computationally unfeasible, so the goal is to develop a simplified model focusing on the leader stage. You will:

• Analyze experimental data and microscopic simulations
• Identify relevant physical features and parameters
• Apply machine learning techniques to build predictive models
• Collaborate closely with experimentalists and modelling experts

Project Environment
This position is part of a collaborative research project involving:

• Two PhD students at TU Eindhoven, conducting experiments
• A PhD student at CWI, focused on modelling streamer discharges
• A committee of industrial users, ranging from start-ups to multinationals, providing feedback several times per year

Our modelling group at CWI Amsterdam has extensive expertise in modelling the dynamics of gas discharges. We have developed several microscopic models for the early stages of electric discharges as well as analytical approximations to grasp their multiple spatial and temporal scales. Experimental partners at TU Eindhoven include the group of Sander Nijdam, an expert in measuring streamer discharges with highest resolution, and the group of Tom Huiskamp, who focusses on new solid state high voltage sources and their applications.

• Previous experience with electric discharges, either experimental or computational
• Affinity for computer simulations
• A finished PhD thesis (at least submitted to the PhD committee by the time you start)

Diversity code
CWI encourages a diverse workforce: we endeavour to develop talent and creativity by bringing people from different backgrounds and cultures together. We recruit and select based on capabilities and talent. We strongly encourage everyone with the appropriate qualifications to apply for the vacancy, regardless of age, gender, origin, sexual orientation or physical abilities.

The appointment will be for 20 months (based on a fulltime position but longer with a part time position) and the gross monthly salary for an employee on a full time basis, depending on relevant work experience, ranges from € 4.501 to € 5.486. Specifically, the terms of employment are in accordance with the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Research Centres ("CAO-onderzoeksinstellingen").

Employees at CWI/NWO-I are also entitled to a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.33%. CWI offers attractive working conditions, including flexible scheduling.

Please visit our website for more information about our terms of employment: https://www.cwi.nl/jobs/terms-of-employment

Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI) is the Dutch national research institute for mathematics and computer science and is part of the Institutes Organisation of the Dutch Research Council (NWO). The mission of CWI is to conduct pioneering research in mathematics and computer science, generating new knowledge in these fields and conveying it to trade, industry, and society at large.

CWI is an internationally oriented institute, with 160 scientists from approximately 27 countries, an informal atmosphere and short lines of communication. We have an activity committee that organizes after-work activities and an informal women’s network.

CWI is located at Amsterdam Science Park, which is a major location for scientific research in the Netherlands. Next to CWI, Science Park houses several other national research institutes, many startups and scale-ups, the Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX), and the Faculty of Science of the University of Amsterdam.

To find more information about the group, please visit the group page and watch their video (see https://www.cwi.nl/en/groups/multiscale-dynamics/).

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the “Apply” button on this page. The application should include:

• a motivation letter
• a CV, including the email addresses of two references
• a copy or a draft of your PhD thesis
• a list of publications

There is no deadline for applications, but applications will be processed in order of arrival. The position stays open until it is filled.

For more information about the vacancy, please contact Prof. Ute Ebert, email Prof.dr. Ute.Ebert@cwi.nl

or Dr. Jannis Teunissen, email Jannis.Teunissen@cwi.nl. For more information about CWI, please visit www.cwi.nl or watch our video about working at CWI.

CWI encourages a diverse workforce: we endeavour to develop talent and creativity by bringing people from different backgrounds and cultures together. We recruit and select based on capabilities and talent. We strongly encourage everyone with the appropriate qualifications to apply for the vacancy, regardless of age, gender, origin, sexual orientation or physical abilities.