PhD on Control of Wind-Farm Atmosphere Interaction

This PhD position at KU Leuven focuses on the control of wind-farm atmosphere interaction, supervised by Professor Johan Meyers in the Turbulent Flow Simulation and Optimization (TFSO) research group within the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The research is part of the ERC Advanced Grant 'Real-time optimal control of wind-farm atmosphere interaction (REALTOWIND)' and is integrated into the broader wind-farm control research of the TFSO group, recognized as a global leader in wind farm research. The project aims to revolutionize wind-farm flow control by developing a fully integrated large-eddy simulation (LES)-based time-decoupled model predictive controller for wind farms. The research will demonstrate this controller in a high-fidelity emulator environment and, in part, using field data. Key challenges include understanding the diverging sensitivities of perturbations in turbulent flows over long time horizons, managing sparse atmospheric measurements for state estimation, exploring wind-farm atmosphere interaction in non-neutral stratification, and efficiently emulating wind-farm control using high-performance computing. As a member of the REALTOWIND team, you will contribute to solving these challenges through scientific computing, programming in Fortran and Python, parallel computing, and algorithm development for optimal control with LES. The research environment is highly interdisciplinary, combining fluid mechanics, optimization, simulation, and renewable energy. Applicants should have a master's degree in fluid mechanics, aerospace engineering, mathematical engineering, mechanical engineering, computational physics, or a related field. A strong background or interest in wind energy, fluid mechanics, optimization, simulation, and programming (Fortran, C/C++, Python, etc.) is required. Proficiency in English is mandatory, and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, CAE, or CPE) is preferred. KU Leuven is committed to diversity and equal opportunity, encouraging applications from all backgrounds. The PhD position is for four years, with an immediate start possible and a preferred start date no later than October 1st, 2026. The candidate will also engage in limited teaching activities (approximately 10% of the time). The remuneration is generous, with a net monthly salary of about 2400 Euro, adjusted for inflation, and includes social security. The salary may be higher for candidates with dependents, and is in line with KU Leuven standards. To apply, use the KU Leuven online application platform. Applications should include an academic CV, diplomas and transcripts, a statement of research interests and career goals, a sample of technical writing in English, at least one recommendation letter, a list of at least two references, and preferably proof of English proficiency. Applications by email are not considered. The application deadline is April 30th, 2026. KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity as an asset and fostering open dialogue and differences in perspective. For questions about accessibility or support, assistance is available.