PhD in Computational Methods for Rarefied and Partially Ionized Gases Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology focuses on developing advanced computational methods for rarefied and partially ionized gases, which are critical in engineering systems operating under extreme vacuum conditions. Applications include high altitude aerospace flight and EUV semiconductor photolithography, where partial ionization leads to complex plasma-gas interactions. The project aims to create a hybrid computational framework by integrating deterministic mesoscale models for rarefied gas flows (TU/e) with stochastic microscale particle models (KU Leuven), offering a transformative approach to plasma-gas modeling that balances accuracy, scalability, and reduced stochastic noise.

The research will involve deriving kinetic and enhanced fluid models for coupled rarefied gas–plasma dynamics, designing computational algorithms for hybrid multiscale modeling, and performing numerical validation through benchmark cases with industrial partners. The successful candidate will join the Department of Mechanical Engineering at TU/e, supervised by Dr. Michael Abdelmalik and Dr. Harald van Brummelen, and collaborate with Dr. Giovanni Samaey from KU Leuven's Scientific Computing group. The project is part of a joint research effort combining expertise in fluid dynamics, statistical physics, machine learning, and industrial applications.

Employment conditions include a four-year full-time contract, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. Teaching tasks will comprise at least 10% of employment, with a maximum of 15% per year. Salary is in scale P (€3,059–€3,881/month), with a year-end bonus (8.3%), annual vacation pay (8%), pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, commuting and home working allowances, and a tax compensation scheme (30% facility) for international candidates. TU/e offers high-quality training programs, excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus childcare, sports facilities, and support for international staff.

Applicants must have an MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or equivalent, with strong background in applied mathematics, computational physics, mechanical engineering, or aerospace engineering. Experience in computational kinetic theory, rarefied gases, or plasma dynamics is advantageous. Analytical skills, initiative, creativity, and excellent English communication are required.

To apply, submit your application online via the provided link, including a cover letter, CV with publications, and contact information for three references. Only complete applications will be considered. The vacancy remains open until filled, with a deadline of March 25, 2026. For further information, contact Dr. Michael Abdelmalik ([email protected]) or [email protected].