PhD researcher on the topic of electron cyclotron heating and storage

DIFFER

The Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research (DIFFER) performs leading fundamental research on materials, processes, and systems for a global sustainable energy infrastructure. We work in close partnership with (inter)national academia and industry. Our user facilities are open to industry and university researchers. As an institute of the Dutch Research Council (NWO) DIFFER plays a key role in fundamental research for the energy transition.

We use a multidisciplinary approach applicable on two key areas, solar fuels for the conversion and storage of renewable energy and nuclear fusion – as a clean source of energy.

In our institute physicists, chemists, engineers, and other specialists work together in multidisciplinary teams to accelerate the transition to a sustainable society. DIFFER’s workforce is currently composed of ~160 scientists (of which 60 guests and interns), supported by ~40 technicians and ~30 support staff members. The global nature of the energy challenge is apparent from the international representation of our employees, who originate from over 30 different countries. To strengthen our commitment to diversity, in January 2018 we formed a task force to design, implement, and monitor diversity and gender equality initiatives. 

Differ is looking for a PhD researcher on the topic of electron cyclotron heating and storage

We aim to investigate and develop new approaches necessary to develop electron cyclotron heating systems for future reactors. This project starts with development of an integrated requirement list of the components for a feasible microwave generation design. Hence, a strong background in microwave engineering is preferred. Moreover, it is expected that the project will require the application of COMSOL analysis and the use of other similar software tools. An important component is also to investigate how we can improve the cooling of such systems and enhance the role of active control to further enhance the output of the system. An important part is the study of the scalability of the design for relevant power output designs.

This position is available in the Energy Systems & Control group (ES&C) of the Fusion Energy department at DIFFER.

Position and requirements

Responsibilities
•    Perform system engineering analysis of the system and requirements on the specific (main) components of the heating system.
•    Research and develop key sub-components most crucial for the design.
•    Help prepare in the construction of such an electron cyclotron heating system. 
•    Collaborate with researchers in the EE department to achieve and enhance project objectives
•    Supervise MSc student projects. 
•    Contribute to scientific dissemination, including research publications presentations at conferences, and stakeholder meetings.
•    Complete a PhD thesis based on the research within four years.

Requirements
•    Fundamental physics background and/or electrical engineering background (master’s degree).
•    Background knowledge and familiarity with microwave systems is a plus.
 

Terms and conditions

This position is for 1 FTE for a period of up to 4 years and is graded in pay scale PhD (currently gross € 2968,--/month in year 1 until gross € 3801,-- in year 4). The position will be based at DIFFER (Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research). You will have an employee status at NWO. You can participate in all employee benefits NWO offers. We have a number of regulations that support employees in finding a good work-life balance. More information on working at NWO can be found at the NWO website (Employment regulations: CAO, IR and pension - NWO-I): Arbeidsvoorwaarden: cao, UVR en pensioen - NWO-I.

The NWO Recruitment code applies to this position. At DIFFER we believe that a workforce diverse in gender, age, and cultural background is key to performing excellent research. We therefore strongly encourage applications from women and minorities. 

Information and application

You can apply for this position via de button. The application closing date is 16 September 2025. For questions about the position you can contact Matthijs van Berkel: m [368] vanberkel [18] differ [368] nl (m[dot]vanberkel[at]differ[dot]nl).