We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated PhD
candidate to join as soon as possible the Mathematics of
Computational Science (MACS) group within the Department of
Applied Mathematics at the University of Twente. You will work under the supervision of Dr. Gregor Gantner on a project dedicated to advancing the field of adaptive methods for time-dependent partial differential equations (PDEs). The position is funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) via the Vidi research project Optimal adaptive space-time boundary and finite element methods.
The project focuses on the design, numerical analysis, and implementation of novel numerical algorithms to efficiently solve parabolic PDEs such as the heat equation. More precisely, you shall investigate space-time finite element methods (FEM) and space-time boundary element methods (BEM), which both discretize the PDE as a whole, treating time as yet another dimension. In particular, this allows for fully flexible local mesh refinement in the space-time cylinder. You will develop suitable a-posteriori computable estimators for the discretization error to adaptively steer the mesh refinement and mathematically prove that the resulting algorithms converge optimally with respect to the number of mesh elements. You will further implement and thereby validate the theoretical results through numerical experiments.
You will conduct your research in a collaborative, international, and interdisciplinary environment that values both academic excellence and open exchange of ideas. The MACS group offers a stimulating atmosphere with regular discussions, opportunities for collaboration, and access to expertise in numerical analysis, dynamical systems, and high-performance computing. The position includes funding to present your work at leading conferences and engage in international collaborations.
Information and application
Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before May 21, 2026, and include:
- A Curriculum Vitae, including the names of two possible
references, a list of all courses attended and grades
obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications.
- A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasising your
specific interest, qualifications, and motivations to apply for this position.
For more information regarding this position, you are welcome to
contact Dr. Gregor Gantner (gregor.gantner@utwente.nl).
The first round of interviews will be held on May 26, 2026.
Screening is part of the selection process.
About the organisation
The faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) uses mathematics, electronics and computer technology to contribute to the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). With ICT present in almost every device and product we use nowadays, we embrace our role as contributors to a broad range of societal activities and as pioneers of tomorrow's digital society. As part of a tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.
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