PhD in supramolecular interactions in organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors

Introduction
Are you fascinated by how molecular-scale interactions determine the real-world performance of functional materials? In this PhD project, you will study a new class of materials that find application in future technologies ranging from neuromorphic computing and bioelectronics to energy storage. Are you ready to help unravel the inner workings of these fascinating materials by investigating them during operation?

Job Description
Your research
In your PhD project, you will uncover how intermolecular interactions and supramolecular morphology govern the functionality of organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors (OMIECs). Bridging the fields of OMIECs and supramolecular chemistry, you will investigate these relationships through in-depth operando characterization.

OMIECs are soft materials that conduct both electrons and ions, highly promising for applications ranging from energy storage and solar fuels to bioelectronics and neuromorphic computing. However, electrons, ions, solvent and the molecular structure all reorganize during operation, making it difficult to disentangle how molecular-scale interactions ultimately determine macroscopic function.

You will develop characterization methods and experimental setups to probe intermolecular interactions as OMIECs operate. Spectroelectrochemistry will be a key tool; developing operando cells, setups, and experiments that enable you to discern dynamic spectral signatures of molecular packing. By following changes in supramolecular organization during electrochemical doping, your work will reveal how doping affects supramolecular organization.

You will also determine how supramolecular packing governs doping efficiency and dynamics, linking morphology to device-relevant properties, by studying varied samples of available supramolecular building blocks. These fundamental insights will provide a supramolecular knob for tuning material functionality, thereby introducing new ways to control material behavior.

The key outcome of your research is a mechanistic framework describing the bidirectional interplay between OMIEC doping and supramolecular interactions. Building on this framework, you will ultimately design switchable supramolecular OMIEC systems in collaboration with other researchers, targeting applications in in-material computing. Beyond these systems, your fundamental insights will contribute to the general development of next-generation computing and adaptive bioelectronics.

Your environment and support
As a member of the Optoelectronic Mixed Conductors group at the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, you will conduct your research under the supervision of Prof. Tom van der Pol. Your project is highly interdisciplinary, with opportunities to collaborate with researchers across the department. You will become part of a broad and vibrant scientific community, including the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems.

At TU/e and within the Optoelectronic Mixed Conductors group, curiosity-driven research and personal development go hand in hand. You will have the freedom to pursue ambitious scientific questions while receiving the guidance and support needed to develop your own ideas and expertise. Your supervisory team will support you in developing the skills, confidence, and scientific perspective needed to uncover the mechanisms that govern OMIECs and to shape your own path as a researcher.

Job Requirements

• We are looking for an enthusiastic self-motivated researcher who holds an MSc degree in chemistry, physics, material science, or equivalent.
• Experience with functional material characterization is essential, and spectroscopy or electrochemistry is preferred.
• Prior experience with organic semiconductors, supramolecular chemistry, or operando characterization is highly valued.
• You possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills and enjoy hands-on experimental research.
• You are curious, creative, and eager to develop new experiments, setups, knowledge, and skills.
• You enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team and you actively seek opportunities to collaborate.
• You are motivated to contribute to teaching and supervision of students.
• You are excellent in spoken and written English.

Conditions of Employment
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station.

In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross base salary per month (full-time)).
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, and on-campus children's day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us
We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community. Discover what Light Up means to TU/e in our short company video.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry bridges science and engineering to create sustainable solutions for society. By combining expertise in molecules, materials, and processes, we drive innovations that address global challenges in energy, circularity, health and future technology. Through world-class research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strong industry partnerships, we educate engineers and scientists who turn scientific discoveries into technologies with lasting societal impact. Together, we create chemistry for a better world.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Tom van der Pol, t.p.a.v.d.pol@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact HRServices.helix@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• A transcript of your BSc and MSc studies.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

PhD Position in Digital Twins for Flood-Resilient Infrastructure

Job description

Current and future impact of flooding to critical infrastructure (e.g. dikes, bridges) is a major concern worldwide. Unfortunately, the management of flood-prone structures is extremely challenging because underlying processes are complex and uncertain. If our capacity to anticipate flood-induced impacts on infrastructure does not improve, societal and economic consequences are likely to be unsustainable.

Digital Twins (DTs) offer a promising opportunity to combine recent advances in modelling, data assimilation and machine learning. However, for DTs to support the management of flood-prone infrastructure, they must be effectively integrated with flood-risk modelling. The scientific challenge is to develop methods that enable Digital Twins to leverage multiple models, datasets and computational techniques to improve predictive capacity in real flood-risk contexts.

FlooDT (Digital Twin for flood-resilient infrastructure management) is a prestigious and ambitious project funded by NWO. It aims to develop a new methodological framework to exploit the capability of DTs for managing flood risk “from climate prediction to structure protection”. TU Delft is leading the project and a consortium that involves multiple universities (e.g. ETH Zurich, Univ. Polytechnica of Catalunya) and stakeholders (e.g. Deltares, Rijkswaterstaat). The project has also the support of the TU Delft Digital Competence Centre (DCC).

For this unique project we are seeking a motivated and talented PhD candidate for a 4-year appointment. In your role you will:

• Develop functional modules for Digital Twins, such as risk analysis, scenario modelling and processing of monitoring data.
• Develop hybrid (physics based/machine learning) modelling for flood risk.
• Apply and validate the Digital Twin functionalities for simplified representation of infrastructure (first) and real case studies (second).
• Implement the developed functionalities into end users' platforms.
• Co-organise workshops and co-coordinate stakeholder engagement (e.g. regular meetings, presentations, visits).

You will join the FlooDT team and the Flood Risk and Hydraulic Structures section, a collaborative and international team where curiosity, interdisciplinary research and scientific excellence are valued. Our section closely collaborates with the other sections within the Department of Hydraulic Engineering, other departments within our Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geoscience and many research groups around the world. We offer strong support for your professional growth, including mentoring, training, and ample opportunities for international collaboration and networking.

This position will open doors to exciting career opportunities in both academia and the future-facing companies that are shaping the next generation of digital technologies.

Job requirements
We are looking for an excellent, enthusiastic and inquisitive computational researcher who enjoys working in an international and multidisciplinary environment. You have:

• A MSc degree in Civil Engineering, Computer Science or Hydro-informatics (or in a related discipline).
• Demostrated experience in numerical modelling, hydrodynamic simulation and data management.
• Scientific and/or practical knowledge of machine learning.
• Excellent programming skills (e.g. in Python, SQL, Java, PyTorch, etc.).
• A critical, creative and pro-active approach to research, with distinctive problem-solving skills.
• Proven experience with writing scientific reports/publications.
• Confidence/willingness in engaging with partners and stakeholders.
• Excellent command of English (oral and written).

Previous internship experience with non-academic institutions is desiderable.

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 of 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.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

Junior HR Adviseur

Wat ga je doen?

Je verdeelt je tijd ongeveer gelijk tussen recruitment en de bredere HR-praktijk. Je combineert contact met kandidaten, medewerkers en leidinggevenden met het coördineren van HR-processen. Je houdt overzicht, brengt vragen zorgvuldig in kaart en zorgt dat betrokkenen weten wat de volgende stap is.

Dit zijn je belangrijkste werkzaamheden:

• Je stemt met leidinggevenden af welk profiel nodig is, zet vacatures uit, beoordeelt sollicitaties en begeleidt kandidaten. Je organiseert gesprekken en bewaakt de voortgang en terugkoppeling.
• Je bereidt nieuwe collega’s voor op hun start en coördineert de overdracht naar onboarding.
• Je onderzoekt praktische HR-vragen van medewerkers en leidinggevenden en adviseert over de mogelijke vervolgstappen. Je houdt betrokkenen op de hoogte en bewaakt de opvolging.
• Je coördineert processen rond personeelswijzigingen en offboarding en zorgt dat personeelsgegevens en dossiers zorgvuldig worden bijgehouden.
• Je stelt rapportages op, bijvoorbeeld over verzuim en uitstroom. Je signaleert opvallende ontwikkelingen, bespreekt die met betrokken collega’s en volgt afgesproken acties op.

Je werkt samen met Marian, Kevin, Bauke en Debby. Ieder met zijn of haar eigen rol binnen HR of salarisadministratie. Je begint aan je loopbaan in HR, dus je hoeft nog niet alles te weten. Wel pak je vragen en processen die je kent steeds zelfstandiger op: je zoekt uit wat nodig is, adviseert en houdt de voortgang bij. Je collega’s maken je wegwijs in de werkwijzen en systemen en denken met je mee. Bij ingewikkelde of gevoelige situaties overleg je met een ervaren HR-collega.

Wat breng je mee?
Je maakt makkelijk contact en hebt oog voor wat iemand nodig heeft. Je luistert, vraagt door en stemt je communicatie af op de persoon en de situatie. Je bent bovenal nieuwsgierig naar het HR-vak. Als je iets nog niet weet, zoek je uit hoe het werkt, vraag je collega’s om hun ervaring en neem je nieuwe inzichten mee in je werk. Zo bouw je je kennis op en pak je HR-vraagstukken steeds zelfstandiger op.

Je brengt mee:

• Een afgeronde hbo-opleiding richting Human Resource Management (HRM) of een vergelijkbare richting.
• Je staat aan het begin van je loopbaan of maximaal twee jaar relevante ervaring hebt, bijvoorbeeld als intercedent of op een HR-afdeling.
• Basiskennis van human resources, opgedaan tijdens je studie, stage of werk.
• Je maakt nieuwe digitale systemen snel eigen en werkt zorgvuldig: je gaat discreet om met personeelsinformatie, legt afspraken helder vast en volgt acties op.
• Je bent beschikbaar voor 32 tot 40 uur per week.

Wat bieden wij?
Je krijgt de ruimte om in je rol te groeien en stap voor stap meer verantwoordelijkheid te nemen. Daarnaast kun je rekenen op:

• Een salaris van € 3.000 tot € 3.620 bruto per maand, op basis van een fulltime werkweek van 39,5 uur. Ben je starter, dan is je startsalaris € 3.000.
• 26 vakantiedagen per jaar, met de mogelijkheid om extra dagen bij te kopen.
• Een winstdelingsuitkering van maximaal één bruto maandsalaris per jaar. De hoogte is afhankelijk van het bedrijfsresultaat.
• Een netto reiskostenvergoeding van € 0,23 per kilometer, vanaf 10 kilometer enkele reis.
• Een goede pensioenregeling, waarbij AVIA Vollenhoven 75% van de premie betaalt.
• De mogelijkheid om hybride te werken.

Welkom bij AVIA Vollenhoven. De perfecte pitstop voor jouw carrière. Bij AVIA Vollenhoven, een trots Tilburgs familiebedrijf sinds 1895, werken we dagelijks klantgericht aan duurzame mobiliteit. Met onze ervaring in bemande en onbemande tankstations combineren we vertrouwde service met innovatieve oplossingen zoals laadinfra, biobrandstoffen, batterijopslag en energiemanagementsystemen.

Onze kracht? Je merkt het vanaf dag één. Dat warme welkom. Je merkt vanaf je eerste dag dat je er niet alleen voor staat. Misschien vind je die eerste ochtend best spannend. Dan maakt een collega je wegwijs, staat de koffie klaar en schuif je aan bij een gesprek. Voor je het weet denk je mee en voel je: ik hoor hier gewoon bij.

En heb je een idee? Dan luisteren collega’s, denken ze met je mee en krijg je de ruimte om het verder te brengen. Je hoeft niet alles alleen uit te zoeken. De deur staat open, hulp is dichtbij en samen zorgen jullie dat het werk doorgaat. Met aandacht voor elkaar, een grap tussendoor en het vertrouwen dat jouw bijdrage ertoe doet.

Interesse?
Wil je meer weten over de functie of AVIA Vollenhoven? Neem contact op met Kevin van der Heijden, recruiter.

• WhatsApp: +31 6 22 99 31 63
• E-mail: heijden.k@aviavollenhoven.nl

Of solliciteer direct via de sollicitatiebutton op de functie van Junior HR Adviseur bij AVIA Vollenhoven in Tilburg.

AVIA Vollenhoven werft en selecteert haar collega’s zelf. Daarom vragen we bureaus om geen kandidaten aan te bieden voor deze vacature.

PhD in Multifunctional Polymer Composites

Introduction
Are you inspired to push the limits of polymeric materials for lighter and smarter defense platforms? Join us to develop a new generation of 3D-printed composite panels that shield electronics from electromagnetic threats and withstand impact.

Job Description
We are offering 2 PhD positions within project VALOR, an ambitious, interdisciplinary collaboration between academia, industry and government partners. The project aims to develop a new generation of lightweight composite panels that both shield sensitive electronics from electromagnetic threats and withstand impact events, helping to make defense platforms safer and more resilient.

Naval ships, drones and military vehicles increasingly depend on electronic radar, communication and navigation systems that must be protected against electromagnetic interference and radar detection. Today, this is mostly done with metals, which block practically all wave power with only a thin layer. However, they add weight, corrode, and reflect electromagnetic waves, making platforms easier to detect. Project VALOR tackles this challenge by merging two fields that have so far been developed separately: absorption-based electromagnetic shielding and impact-resistant sandwich structures. By combining 3D-printed architected nanocomposite materials with predictive modelling into one integrated design strategy, the project will construct a design framework for panels that are able to both carry loads and absorb electromagnetic waves, with a performance that can be tailored to specific (defense) applications.

Your role
We are recruiting two PhD candidates who will work as a team throughout the project, i.e. from material screening to design and testing of larger scale panel demonstrators. Both candidates will conduct a combination of experimental and numerical work and collaborate closely with industrial partners within the consortium. More specifically:

• PhD 1 focuses on mechanics and manufacturing: 3D printing nanocomposite lattice materials, fabricating composite facesheets, conducting mechanical tests, constructing and validating mechanical finite element models.
• PhD 2 focuses on electromagnetic testing and design: formulating polymer nanocomposite materials and characterizing their electromagnetic behaviour, designing and testing absorbing architected nanocomposite structures, conducting electromagnetic shielding simulations.

Your team and network
You will join the Processing and Performance of Materials section in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at TU/e. The group has around 20 PhD and post-doctoral researchers working on how processing, structure and properties connect in polymers and polymer-based composite materials. The group is known for its integrated experimental-numerical approach to tailor the performance of these materials. You will have access to state-of-the-art computational facilities and laboratories dedicated to rheology, polymer processing (incl. additive manufacturing) and mechanical testing. You will be supervised by Frederik Van Loock (project leader), Ruth Cardinaels and Tom Engels.

Job Requirements
PhD 1 – Mechanics and manufacturing
We are looking for a highly motivated and ambitious researcher with the following qualifications:

• A master’s degree (or equivalent) with excellent grades in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in mechanics of materials / solid mechanics.
• A strong interest in combining experimental work with numerical modelling.
• Enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary team and with industrial and defense partners.
• A research-oriented mindset: critical thinking is your second nature.
• Good communication skills and fluency in English, both spoken and written (C1 level).
• Experience with one or more of the following areas is a plus: mechanical characterization of polymer-based materials, finite element simulations of mechanical behaviour of polymer-based materials, 3D printing of polymers, polymer and composite processing.

PhD 2 – Electromagnetic testing and design

We are looking for a highly motivated and ambitious researcher with the following qualifications:

• A master’s degree (or equivalent) with excellent grades in Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical), Materials Science or Applied Physics, with a specialization in materials.
• A strong interest in combining experimental work with numerical modelling.
• Enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary team and with industrial and defense partners.
• A research-oriented mindset: critical thinking is your second nature.
• Good communication skills and fluency in English, both spoken and written (C1 level).
• Experience with one or more of the following areas is a plus: electromagnetic characterization of polymer-based materials (e.g. vector network analysis, waveguide measurements), electromagnetic simulations (e.g. full-wave finite element modelling), 3D printing and processing of polymers.

Why Join?

• Work within the multidisciplinary Processing and Performance of Materials group
• Work at the forefront of advanced materials research in collaboration with industry leaders.
• Combine material formulation, characterization, and computation in a multidisciplinary team.
• Get trained to use cutting-edge experimental and numerical simulation facilities.
• Contribute to the development of advanced multi-functional and 3D printed composite panels that make defense platforms more safe and resilient.
• Work in an international working environment and present your work at international conferences.

Conditions of Employment
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station.

In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross base salary per month (full-time)).
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, and on-campus children's day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us
We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community. Discover what Light Up means to TU/e in our short company video.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Frederik Van Loock, f.v.loock@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact HRServices.me@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• Complete overview of grades obtained (bachelor & master degree).

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

PhD in Communication-Optimized Inference in Large Language Models

Introduction
Are you interested in the communication networks behind modern AI systems? Would you like to combine mathematical modeling with experiments on programmable network hardware to make AI infrastructure faster and more energy-efficient? In this PhD project, you will develop models and orchestration methods for the networks that connect GPUs during large language model inference. Are you our next PhD candidate in high-performance AI networking?

Job Description
Your research challenge
Large language models rely on powerful computing infrastructure to generate responses. When inference is distributed across multiple GPUs, these devices must continuously exchange intermediate results. Network congestion and communication overhead can therefore limit performance and increase energy consumption, even when substantial computing resources are available.

In the project Communication-Optimized Inference in Large Language Models (COIL), you will investigate how analytical network models can support the design and operation of AI clusters. The project combines network performance modeling, optimization, and experimental research, giving you the opportunity to connect mathematical foundations with practical challenges in AI infrastructure.

You will develop fast, composable analytical models using Network Calculus, a mathematical framework for analyzing communication networks. These models will capture interactions between inference traffic, network architecture, and mechanisms such as flow control and congestion feedback. They will provide bounds on communication latency and buffer requirements, complemented by energy estimates based on measurement-calibrated power models.

Building on these models, you will explore how architectural choices—including network topology, link bandwidth, and parallelization strategies—affect performance and energy consumption. You will develop tools that help cluster designers evaluate promising configurations efficiently.

You will also investigate how the models can guide runtime decisions, such as workload placement, prioritization, routing, or resource reservation. A focused prototype will demonstrate how model-informed decisions can improve the operation of an existing network.

Experimental validation will be an integral part of your research. You will use measurements from AI infrastructure and conduct reproducible experiments on programmable networking testbeds. Technologies of interest include Ethernet-based AI networks, emerging Ultra Ethernet mechanisms, P4-programmable switches, and SmartNICs. Finally, you will evaluate the results from the testbeds on real AI infrastructure in collaboration with our partner SURF.

Through this combination of theory, software development, and experimentation, you will contribute to more responsive and energy-efficient AI infrastructure. The project also offers opportunities to share your findings with networking standardization communities and to release research tools and experimental results openly.

An interdisciplinary and international environment
You will conduct your research under the main supervision of Prof. Lisa Maile who leads the Network Modeling and Design (NoMaD) lab. NoMaD is part of the Electronic Systems group in the Department of Electrical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology. Your supervision will also include partners from the Advanced Models by Open Research and Engineering (AMOR/e) Lab of Computer Science and the Model-Based Design Lab from Electrical Engineering.

The position is funded through the EuroTech programme, which promotes research collaboration between leading technical universities across Europe. As part of this project, you will collaborate closely with Prof. Georg Carle and his research group on Network Architectures and Services at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). As part of this collaboration, you will spend six-month in Munich with the group at TUM, where you will gain hands-on experience with programmable network hardware and reproducible experimental infrastructure.

Job Requirements
Essential qualifications

• A master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field.
• A strong mathematical background, demonstrated by excellent performance in mathematically rigorous courses, additional mathematics electives, a mathematics minor or specialization, or substantial mathematical work in a thesis or research project.
• Good programming skills and an interest in developing research software and experimental tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, initiative, and creativity.
• An interest in high-performance networking and AI infrastructure, and motivation to apply mathematical methods to computer networks and distributed systems.
• A strong team spirit and enthusiasm for working in an international, collaborative, and socially engaging environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Willingness to spend at least six months at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) as part of the project.

Desirable qualifications

• A solid foundation in computer networks or distributed systems.
• Experience with Network Calculus, network simulation, mathematical optimization, or GPU communication.
• Experience with programmable networking technologies, such as P4 or SmartNICs.

Selection procedure
Interviews and a scientific presentation will be part of the selection procedure.

Conditions of Employment
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station.

In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross base salary per month (full-time)).
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, and on-campus children's day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us
We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community. Discover what Light Up means to TU/e in our short company video.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Network Modeling and Design (NoMaD) Lab develops mathematical models, tools, and protocols for reliable and efficient communication networks. Its research connects formal analysis with practical implementation, covering technologies such as Time-Sensitive Networking, Ultra Ethernet, and beyond-5G networks. Applications range from connected vehicles and industrial automation to large-scale AI infrastructure. By combining analytical methods with simulation and hardware experiments, the lab translates theoretical insights into practical network designs and resource-management solutions.

NoMaD is part of the ES group, which develops methods for designing electronic, embedded, and cyber-physical systems with predictable performance, timing, reliability, and energy consumption. With about 12 full-time and 5 part-time professors and ~45 post-docs, PhDs, and EngD students, the group’s expertise spans model-driven engineering, system architectures, software, and digital circuits. This provides an interdisciplinary environment for your research, connecting network modeling and optimization with broader challenges in computing and system design.

The mission of the Department of Electrical Engineering is to acquire, share and transfer knowledge and understanding in the whole field of Electrical Engineering through education, research and valorization. We work towards a ‘Smart Sustainable Society’, a ‘Connected World’, and a healthy humanity (‘Care & Cure’). Activities share an application-oriented character, a high degree of complexity and a large synergy between multiple facets of the field.

Research is carried out into the applications of electromagnetic phenomena in all forms of energy conversion, telecommunication and electrical signal processing. Existing and new electrical components and systems are analyzed, designed and built. The Electrical Engineering department takes its inspiration from contacts with high-tech industry in the direct surrounding region and beyond.

The department is innovative and has international ambitions and partnerships. The result is a challenging and inspiring setting in which socially relevant issues are addressed.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Lisa Maile, l.t.maile@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact Kevin Caris, HR advisor, k.t.caris@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• A transcript of your BSc and MSc studies.
• A sample of your academic or technical writing in English where you are the first authors. For example, a research paper, thesis chapter, or report, of which you are the primary author.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.