Delft University of Technology
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PhD Position: Efficient Online Optimization for Time-Varying Systems Delft University of Technology in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
4-year PhD employment contract; salary €3204–€4051 gross per month based on full-time 38 hours, plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
Deadline
Nov 23, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Delft University of Technology
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About this position
This PhD project at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) investigates efficient online optimization for time-varying systems, with a focus on safe and adaptive learning control. The research addresses a key challenge in learning-based control: how to learn a model while still guaranteeing safety, especially when the optimal decision changes over time.
The project aims to develop computationally efficient methods for safe learning in time-varying optimal control problems. A central research question is how the dynamics of the optimized system relate to the numerical properties of optimization algorithms, so that the resulting framework can achieve safe learning with minimal interactions over time. The work sits at the intersection of theory and application, combining algorithmic development with experimental validation.
The PhD candidate will join Dr Marta Zagorowska and the Delft Center for Systems and Control (DCSC) within TU Delft’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. The research environment is strongly connected to energy, climate, and smart systems themes, and the project is framed by real-world challenges in industrial systems, electricity production, and heating systems in buildings.
Experimental validation is an important part of the project. The developed algorithms will be tested in collaboration with Dr Giulia de Pasquale from TU Eindhoven through laboratory tests, and with partners in Switzerland on the NEST residential building at Next Evolution in Sustainable Building Technologies. The project therefore combines methodological research with applied validation in safety-critical and energy-relevant settings.
The role is a PhD opening in an international research environment with access to TU Delft’s Graduate School and the broader Mechanical Engineering faculty. The project is designed for a candidate interested in optimization, control, and safe learning methods for complex systems that evolve over time.
Funding details
4-year PhD employment contract; salary €3204–€4051 gross per month based on full-time 38 hours, plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
What's required
Applicants should have an MSc degree in Systems and Control, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a similar field. Prior experience with optimization algorithms is essential. Prior experience with Bayesian optimization and numerical methods is desirable. Strong collaboration, communication, and writing skills are required. English proficiency is required at a level that allows communication, participation in English-taught doctoral courses, and writing scientific articles and a final thesis.
How to apply
Apply via the application button on the TU Delft vacancy page no later than 23 November 2026. Upload your CV, cover letter, and copies of your university degrees together with transcripts for your BSc and MSc programmes. Address the application to Dr. Marta Zagorowska.
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Prepare your application
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.