The SEPIS project has been awarded a Holland Hightech grant to improve systems engineering for physics intensive systems. This project is a collaborative effort between four parties: Ratio CASE (main applicant), Ignition Computing, TU/e, and DIFFER.
Physics-heavy megaprojects often run over schedule due to extreme technical complexity and physical challenges. The development of a nuclear fusion reactor is the epitome of engineering and physics. This project connects top‑down systems engineering with bottom‑up simulations in the context of nuclear fusion to improve the design of complex systems in general.
Scalable, correct-by-construction modelling
Sven Wiesen, group leader Integrated Modelling at DIFFER is very pleased to have received the grant: “We are excited to contribute to a newly funded collaborative MKB project in the Netherlands focused on advancing methodologies that connect systems engineering with physics-based modelling for next-generation fusion systems.
Together with our partners Ratio CASE, Ignition Computing and TU/e, and within the project named SEPIS (Systems Engineering for Physics Intensive Systems) our work will focus on plasma exhaust and control for fusion applications relevant to ITER and STEP. The project aims to develop scalable, correct-by-construction modelling approaches that improve validation, verification, and engineering efficiency for complex fusion system design.
By combining systems engineering methods with integrated plasma physics models, the consortium will help accelerate the development of reliable and scalable fusion technologies for future energy systems.”
Enabling innovations
The MKB Hightech Call 2025 is a Dutch innovation funding program aimed at helping high-tech SMEs (MKBs) collaborate with research organisations on industrial R&D projects involving advanced technologies. The goal is to strengthen SME innovation capacity and accelerate commercialisation of new technologies.
The awarded SEPIS project fits within Systems Engineering, which was one of innovation areas in the call. The duration of the project is two years, starting on 1 September 2026.
More information about the call can be found on the Holland High Tech website. Visit the website of DIFFER to read more about the Integrated Modelling research group.
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