PhD in Safe AI-based Control

Neural networks can provide the flexibility needed to control increasingly complex dynamical systems, but their opaque and nonlinear behavior makes it difficult to guarantee safety and stability. How can we exploit the expressive power of machine learning without compromising the rigorous guarantees required in safety-critical control applications?

In this PhD project, you will develop methods for the analysis, verification, and design of neural-network-based controllers. Rather than treating safety and stability as properties to be assessed only after training, you will investigate safety- and verification-by-design approaches that incorporate certifiable properties directly into the controller architecture and learning process.

This project offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of machine learning and control theory. You will develop rigorous theory and scalable computational methods for certifying closed-loop safety and stability, with potential directions including control barrier and Lyapunov functions, quadratic constraints, semidefinite programming, and neural-network architectures with intrinsic stability or robustness properties. You will also investigate how physical insight, prior system knowledge, and stabilizing baseline controllers can be combined with learning to improve performance while retaining rigorous guarantees. The developed methods will be evaluated on benchmark problems and more realistic scenarios involving complex dynamical systems.

You will join the Control Systems Technology group in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The group offers an open and collaborative environment that combines fundamental and applied research. Its expertise spans data-driven modelling of dynamical systems, control of complex and uncertain systems, motion control for high-tech systems, model predictive, networked, supervisory, neuromorphic, and learning-based control, cyber-physical systems, and optimization. This research is reinforced by close collaborations with industry. You will receive close scientific supervision while having the freedom to shape your research direction, present your work at international conferences, and develop as an independent researcher. Your work will contribute to the foundations of trustworthy artificial intelligence for control and support the reliable use of learning-based controllers in areas such as robotics, motion control, and energy systems.

PhD Position Equilibrium Behavior of Tramp Elements for Green Steel Production

Job description

The transition to low-carbon steel production is one of the key challenges in modern industry. At Tata Steel IJmuiden, this transition involves replacing the traditional blast furnace route with Direct Reduction, Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF), and, in a later stage, a Reducing Electric Furnace (REF). While these technologies enable significant CO₂ reduction, they introduce new challenges—most notably the accumulation of “tramp elements” from scrap and variable feedstocks, which can negatively affect steel quality and slag usability.

This PhD project aims to develop a fundamental thermodynamic understanding of how tramp and trace elements distribute between molten steel, slag, and vapor under next-generation steelmaking conditions. The research will focus on experimentally determining equilibrium partitioning behavior across relevant temperature, composition, and redox conditions, and translating these insights into predictive models for industrial application.

You will design and conduct high-temperature equilibration experiments using advanced gas-mixing furnaces at TU Delft and partner institutes. Samples will be analysed using state-of-the-art techniques such as laser ablation ICP-MS and electron microscopy to quantify trace element distributions at high spatial resolution. The resulting data will be integrated into thermodynamic models (e.g. FACTSage-based approaches) to support process optimisation and control in industrial steelmaking.

The project is carried out in close collaboration with Tata Steel R&D and academic partners, offering a unique opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental science and industrial application. You will contribute directly to the development of green steelmaking technologies while gaining expertise in high-temperature materials science, thermodynamics, and advanced analytical techniques.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a related field. A strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental work is essential. Experience with analytical techniques or modelling is an advantage.

• Design and perform high-temperature equilibrium experiments to study tramp element partitioning between steel, slag, and vapor phases
• Analyse experimental samples using advanced techniques (e.g. LA-ICP-MS, SEM/EDS) to quantify trace element distributions
• Develop and interpret thermodynamic datasets describing element behavior under EAF and REF conditions
• Integrate experimental results into thermochemical models (e.g. FACTSage) to support process simulation and optimisation
• Collaborate with researchers at TU Delft and Tata Steel IJmuiden, and communicate findings through reports and scientific publications

Job requirements

• MSc degree in Experimental Petrology, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a closely related field
• Strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental research
• Affinity with or experience in laboratory work and materials characterization techniques (e.g. SEM, ICP-MS)
• Basic knowledge of thermodynamic modelling or willingness to learn tools such as FACTSage
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
• Good communication skills in English (written and spoken)
• Motivation to engage with both academic research at TU Delft and industrial application at Tata Steel IJmuiden

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.