Junior Researcher Social-Technical Challenges of E-Mobility Transitions Across Africa Research

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Researcher to join a research project examining the dynamics, pathways, and governance of e-mobility transitions in Africa. The project explores social-technical challenges of e-mobility transition in Africa and how the affected actors can navigate these challenges.

The position offers an excellent opportunity for an early-career researcher interested in sustainability transitions and green industrialization. The successful candidate will work closely with the Gideon Ndubuisi.     

Job requirements
The ideal candidate must possess:

• An MSc degree (or equivalent) in Sustainability Studies, Transport Studies, Economics, Innovation Studies, Engineering Management, or a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of sustainability transitions and transition theories, including familiarity with frameworks such as the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), Technological Innovation Systems (TIS), Strategic Niche Management (SNM), or related approaches.
• Demonstrated experience in comparative case study research and qualitative research methodologies.
• Demonstrated experience conducting research in African contexts.
• Interest in theory building, conceptual development, and interdisciplinary research.
• Excellent academic writing and communication skills in English.
• Familiarity with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti, MAXQDA).
• Knowledge of mixed-methods research approaches.
• Ability to work independently.

The succesful candidate will:

• Conduct systematic and targeted literature reviews on sustainable mobility, transport transitions, and related fields.
• Support the design and implementation of comparative case studies across African countries and regions.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of conceptual and theoretical frameworks related to mobility transition in Africa.
• Assist in data collection, qualitative analysis, and synthesis of research findings.
• Participate in stakeholder mapping and engagement activities.
• Contribute to the preparation of academic publications, policy briefs, reports, and conference presentations.

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 Technology, Policy & Management
The Faculty of TPM provides an important contribution to solving complex technical-social issues, such as energy transition, mobility, digitalisation, water management and (cyber) security. TPM does this with its excellent education and research at the intersection of technology, society and policy. We combine insights from both engineering and social sciences as well as the humanities. TPM develops robust models and designs, is internationally oriented and has an extensive network of knowledge institutions, companies, social organisations and governments.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management.

PhD Position on Operational Analysis and Assessment of New Aircraft Concepts

Job description

Research and industry are increasingly investing in new aircraft concepts (e.g., powered by batteries, hydrogen, and other alternative energy sources) that promise to significantly reduce aviation's climate impact. These aircraft come with fundamentally different performance characteristics such as different operating speeds, climb and descent angles and range. It's still an open question what happens when these aircraft share the airspace with conventional traffic, and what that would mean for air traffic control and safety. This is exactly what this PhD project aims to answer!

The primary focus of the research will be to quantify how mixing aircraft with strongly differing performance characteristics affects safety, efficiency and capacity, and to develop the metrics and models needed to make those effects measurable. This can be approached through empirical analysis of large-scale simulations, through new (semi-analytical) models that predict the impact of introducing these vehicle types, or a combination of the two. Because the tools to do this do not yet exist, the open-source air traffic simulator BlueSky will be extended into a scenario generator and assessment framework, which will form part of a larger simulation environment that evaluates the aviation system of the future.

The PhD should consider:

Research:

• Characterise how new aircraft types differ in performance from current traffic, and what this means for separation and procedure design.
• Quantify the relation between safety, capacity and efficiency under a mixed future fleet.
• Identify how we should design procedures for such a heterogenous mix of aircraft types.
• Assess what this implies for ATM innovations such as trajectory prediction, separation automation, collision avoidance, and Trajectory-Based Operations.

Tools and models:

• Extend BlueSky with the scenario generation and assessment capability the above requires.
• Make these tools usable by other researchers and policymakers, in line with the lab's open-science approach.
• Facilitate future expansion to include other domain models (e.g. emissions, noise) in collaboration with other researchers.

This PhD position is part of the Dutch Aviation Systems Analysis Lab (DASAL), a flagship collaboration between TU Delft and Royal NLR, funded through the Dutch national growth fund under the 'Luchtvaart in Transitie' programme. DASAL serves as a living lab for developing integrated models and simulations to support innovation throughout the Dutch aviation sector and public policy. Within this unique ecosystem, you will join a diverse and interdisciplinary team of twelve PhD candidates and three postdocs from across the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, collaborating closely with experts at NLR and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management to analyse the complex interactions between sustainability, economics, and societal impact in aviation.

The PhD candidate will be based at the Operations & Environment section of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, and will actively collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and PhD candidates from the same Faculty, as well as researchers from the Dutch Aerospace Laboratory (NLR), towards the creation of the Dutch Aviation System Analysis Laboratory.

Job requirements

• MSc Degree in Aerospac.e Engineering or Aeronautical Engineering, or an MSc Degree in Mechanical Engineering, (Applied) Mathematics or Computer Science with an affinity for aviation and Air Traffic Management.
• Strong background in physics and mathematics, ideally knowledge in Air Traffic Management.
• Strong background in coding, preferably Python.
• Ability to learn independently and passion for research.
• Strong communication skills in English.
• Team player, open to discussion and constructive criticism.
• Previous involvement in scientific research is a plus.

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.

PhD Position in Hydrogel Bioelectronics

Job description

A 4-year PhD candidate position is available in the research group of Achilleas Savva in the Department of Microelectronics at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.

Our research aims to develop multifunctional and multidimensional bioelectronic interfaces that can address fundamental questions in biology and enable new technologies for treating disease. By combining organic electronic materials, soft hydrogels and advanced microfabrication and 3D-printing technologies, we develop devices that can interact with human cells and tissues with high spatial and temporal resolution.

You will embark on a new project focused on the development of 3D-printed hydrogel bioelectronics for neural interfaces. You will use one-photon polymerization and high-resolution 3D printing to fabricate soft hydrogel structures and integrate them with organic electronic materials, including conducting polymers. The goal is to establish printing strategies that enable electronic functionality to be incorporated directly into three-dimensional, cell-compatible hydrogel architectures.

During the first part of the project, you will develop and optimize printable materials and fabrication processes for creating conductive tracks, electrodes and other electronic components within soft 3D structures. You will characterize their electrical, electrochemical, optical and mechanical properties and investigate the integration of printed hydrogel structures with microfabricated electronic platforms.

Later, you will use these devices to interface with human neural cell cultures in vitro. You will investigate how 3D hydrogel bioelectronic structures can support and guide neuronal growth while enabling electrical recording and stimulation. The ultimate goal is to develop a new generation of soft, 3D and regenerative bioelectronic interfaces that combine electronic functionality with a biomimetic cellular environment.

You will be embedded in the multidisciplinary Bioelectronics research team at TU Delft and collaborate with researchers working on organic bioelectronics, neural interfaces, conducting polymers, microfabrication and advanced 3D printing. You will work at the interface of electrical engineering, materials science, additive manufacturing, biology and bioengineering to develop novel bioelectronic technologies for the future of healthcare.

Job requirements
We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate who is curious, hands-on, and excited to work at the interface of engineering, materials science and biology. You should have:

• An MSc degree in electrical engineering, bioengineering, materials science, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• A background or strong interest in bioelectronics, organic electronics, hydrogels, microfabrication or additive manufacturing/3D printing.
• Interest in developing soft and 3D-printed electronic devices for biological applications.
• Strong experimental and technical skills and enthusiasm for hands-on laboratory research.
• A curiosity-driven and problem-solving mindset, with an eagerness to explore new technologies and research directions.
• The ability to work independently, take initiative and contribute creatively to the project.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills and enthusiasm for working in a multidisciplinary and international research environment.
• Good proficiency in English, enabling you to participate in doctoral courses, write scientific publications and present your research at international conferences.
• Not sure whether you meet every requirement? We still encourage you to apply. Candidates with complementary backgrounds and a strong motivation to learn are very welcome.

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 Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.

Assistant / Associate Professor Signal Processing for Communication

Job description

Wireless communication is evolving rapidly, driven by the growing demand for connected devices, distributed sensing and intelligent communication systems. As an Assistant or Associate Professor in Signal Processing for Communication, you will strengthen research at the intersection of signal processing and physical layer communication.

As part of TU Delft’s Signal Processing Systems (SPS) group, you will develop your own research vision and research line, with opportunities to work on topics such as communication theory, modulation and coding, synchronization, equalization, estimation and detection, array signal processing, channel modelling and interference mitigation. You explore emerging areas including integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), large-scale antenna systems, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), near-field communications, machine learning for communication, and next-generation communication systems (6G, massive IoT/distributed sensing).

Your research can address a broad range of applications, including multi-antenna communications, short-range underwater acoustic links, space communications and dynamic non-terrestrial networks (NTN), ad-hoc communication systems, near-field communication and sensing, and radio astronomy. You will collaborate with researchers across disciplines and build partnerships that help translate fundamental advances in signal processing and communication into new technologies and applications. To realise your research vision, you will develop research proposals, attract funding and build and supervise a team of PhD candidates and researchers. You will disseminate your findings through scientific publications, conferences and your international network.

At the same time, you will contribute to TU Delft’s world-class education, particularly BSc and MSc Electrical Engineering courses in wireless communication and related subjects such as Estimation & Detection.

At SPS, you will join a diverse and supportive team of professors, researchers, engineers and students. As an Assistant Professor, you will join TU Delft’s Academic Career Track, which offers structured support to grow your academic career towards associate and full professorship. Excellently qualified more senior researchers are invited to apply at Associate Professor level. As we are highly motivated to improve gender diversity in (Assistant/Associate) Professor positions, we warmly invite female candidates to apply. In the event of equal qualification, preference will be given to a female candidate.

Job requirements
We are looking for a researcher with a strong scientific foundation, a passion for innovation, and the ambition to develop a leading research programme in signal processing for communication. You enjoy combining theory, experimentation and real-world applications, and you are motivated to contribute to both research excellence and high-quality education.

You also have:

• A PhD in Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline, with outstanding academic credentials.
• One or more years of postdoctoral experience in relevant areas.
• A strong research background in signal processing and physical layer communication.
• The ambition to become a future scientific leader in this area and develop an attractive subgroup consisting of several PhD students and researchers, covering compelling independent research lines.
• The potential to acquire competitive research funding.
• A genuine interest in teaching and supervising BSc and MSc students in wireless communication and related Electrical Engineering courses.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build relevant academic and research networks.
• An excellent command of English, as TU Delft is an internationally diverse community.

We recognise that academic careers develop along different paths and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. If you are excited about this opportunity but do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply.

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 Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.

Research Assistant at the Donders Centre for Cognition: Computational Modelling and Scientific Software

You will be part of a larger project at the Uncertainty in Complex Systems lab (PI: Dr Max Hinne) aimed at learning which statistical and/or computational model is most suited for a provided data set and scientific question. In practice, statistical models contain many arbitrary choices that may (a) have a detrimental effect on what we can learn from it and (b) greatly reduces the reproducibility of scientific research, as different researchers make different decisions. A Bayesian multiverse is a systematic way of reducing these adverse effects and aims to make statistical analyses more robust.

We are looking for a research assistant to contribute to the development of bamojax (Bayesian modelling in JAX), our open-source Python toolbox for Bayesian modelling and model comparison. Throughout your employment, you will have the opportunity to work with others within our group to see what modelling choices they make, and how our new Bayesian multiverse tools can help with this. There will be weekly meetings with the PI to discuss the project's progress and next steps, as well as bi-weekly lab meetings.

You will have two core tasks. The first is to implement advanced methods for Bayesian model comparison in JAX. These techniques will then be used to systematically explore alternative models for user-defined statistical problems. The second task is to construct an efficient search procedure for variants of a given model.