Postdoc in Trustworthy Multi-Model Optimization for Railway Timetabling
ICAI Robust RAIL Lab at
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
is advertising a
postdoctoral position
in
trustworthy multi-model optimization for railway timetabling
. The project sits at the intersection of
optimization
,
operations research
,
machine learning
, and
algorithmics
, with a strong application focus on the Dutch railway network.
The research has two connected directions: (1) combining macroscopic capacity planning, mesoscopic scheduling, and microscopic simulation into a computationally tractable and trustworthy pipeline; and (2) timetabling and capacity allocation for a multi-operator railway, including fair, efficient, and strategy-proof allocation of scarce train paths. The post is embedded in a joint initiative involving TU Delft, Utrecht University, and NS/ProRail under the NWO LTP-ROBUST programme.
The position is hosted in the Algorithmics section and involves collaboration with Prof. Mathijs de Weerdt, ProRail, NS, and other lab researchers working on related railway topics such as hub planning, real-time rescheduling, crew rostering, and energy-efficient operation. The lab encourages the candidate to shape their own research agenda within this scope.
Eligibility highlights:
a recently obtained PhD in optimization, operations research, machine learning, or a closely related field; strong mathematical and algorithmic skills; and interest in theory applied to a large real-world transport system. Conversational spoken Dutch is strongly preferred due to collaboration with Dutch Railways and ProRail.
Funding and conditions:
16 FTE months of postdoctoral employment, with exact duration and working days negotiable. Salary and benefits follow the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, with a listed salary range of €3706–€5760. The role is temporary and includes standard university benefits such as pension, leave, training opportunities, and partial parental leave.
Application:
apply online by
31 Oct 2026
. Submit a CV that clearly shows relevant experience, Dutch language command, and mathematical/algorithmic background, plus a motivational letter explaining your interest in the group and the research interface. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed.
