Postdoctoral Researcher: High-Fidelity LES & Atmospheric Boundary Layer Modeling
We are seeking a talented and ambitious Postdoctoral Researcher to join the ECOWIND project. In this role, you will lead the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) efforts, focusing on Large Eddy Simulations (LES) to advance our understanding of wind field forecasting and turbine load reduction. You will play a pivotal role in bridging fundamental atmospheric science with innovative wind energy control strategies.
About the Project
The ECOWIND project focuses on an integrated strategy to extend the operational lifespan and reduce the overall weight of wind turbines. By innovating ways to lower mechanical loads on critical components and optimizing material usage, we aim to pave the way for a truly circular wind energy sector. A key component of this mission is developing predictive "look-ahead" control capabilities based on LiDAR technology.
Your Mission: Advanced LES & Research Leadership
As a Postdoc, your primary focus will be the application and further development of open-source LES methods (e.g., OpenFOAM, SU2) to simulate a wide range of Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) conditions.
Your work will provide the "ground truth" for the project. By simulating complex inflow conditions, you will create the high-fidelity datasets required to validate the Wind Field Forecasting (WFF) models developed within the team.
- LES Development & Application: Implement and extend open-source LES codes to simulate diverse ABL scenarios, including varying stability, shear, and turbulence intensities.
- Collaboration & Mentoring: Work closely with the project’s EngD researcher, providing the LES-generated data and expertise needed for the development of LiDAR-assisted forecasting methods.
- Methodological Innovation: Identify and implement improvements in LES sub-grid scale models or actuator disk/line representations to better capture turbine-atmosphere interactions.
- Scientific Impact: Lead the authoring of high-impact journal publications and present findings at major international conferences (e.g., Wind Energy Science, WESC).
- Consortium Engagement: Act as a key scientific liaison within the ECOWIND consortium, translating complex CFD results into actionable insights for structural and control engineers.
Information and application
Please submit your application before May 1, 2026, using the "Apply now" button, and include the following:
- A Curriculum Vitae, including contact details of two references.
- Bachelor's and Master's transcripts.
- Title and abstract of your Master's project/thesis.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL).
- A 1-minute video explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this position.
The intended starting date is June/July 2026.
For additional information about this position, you can contact Dr. Huseyin Ozdemir at h.ozdemir@utwente.nl.
Screening is part of the selection procedure.
About the organisation
The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.
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