Position Overview

This position is based in Oldenburg, Germany, and offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on wind turbine aerodynamics and engineering model development. The successful candidate will join the Wind Energy Systems Research Group at the Institute of Physics, which focuses on advancing the understanding of wind power plant flow physics through experimental and numerical approaches.

This PhD project will develop enhanced engineering models to better capture aeroelastic effects in large wind turbines under various inflow conditions, including shear, gusts, and turbulence, combining wind tunnel experiments, free-field tests, and numerical simulations.

Eligibility Requirements

We are hiring candidates with the following qualifications:

• Educational Background:
  • A Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Naval Engineering, Physical Sciences, Wind Energy, or Renewable Energy, or a closely related field.
• Required Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of experimental or numerical fluid dynamics.
  • Hands-on experience in programming with Matlab or Python.
  • High motivation to pursue a PhD with experimental contributions.
  • Proficiency in English (both written and spoken).
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in international environments (e.g., study, research, or work abroad).
  • Good German language skills (optional but advantageous).

Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, your key responsibilities include:

1. Experimental Research:
   • Design, execute, and analyze wind tunnel and free-field experiments to study dynamic inflow effects on wind turbines.
2. Model Development:
   • Develop and parameterize enhanced engineering models for dynamic inflow effects.
   • Integrate these models into industry-standard tools for wind turbine design.
3. Validation and Assessment:
   • Cross-validate experimental results with numerical models and industrial design tools.
   • Assess the effectiveness of improved engineering tools for designing next-generation wind turbines.
4. Collaboration:
   • Work closely with a wind turbine manufacturer, as well as national and international research partners.
5. Dissemination:
   • Present research findings at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

What We Offer

• Professional Growth:
  • An opportunity to develop your scientific career in a leading research environment.
  • Structured supervision and support for your PhD process.
• Collaborative Environment:
  • Multidisciplinary collaboration with ForWind researchers, the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy Systems (IWES), and other partners.
  • Access to outstanding research facilities, including the DLR WiValdi research wind farm, turbulent wind tunnels, and high-performance computing clusters.
• International Exposure:
  • Opportunities to engage with industry leaders and international academic collaborators.
  • Optional secondments at renowned research institutions.
• Comprehensive Benefits:
  • Secure remuneration based on TV-L E13 (75% position).
  • 30 days of vacation, company pension scheme, and flexible working hours.
  • Additional perks such as health management programs, childcare support, and access to the University Sports Centre.

Application Process

Deadline: Submit your application by 20 January 2025.

How to Apply: Applications must be submitted electronically as one PDF file to , including reference #AC112.

Required Documents:

1. Motivation Letter: Explain your interest in the position and its relevance to your career goals.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Outline your educational and professional background.
3. Research Statement: A one-page document presenting your understanding of the advertised topic and initial ideas for tackling it.
4. Academic Transcripts: Include grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diplomas.
5. References: Contact details of employment referees.
6. (Optional) A second PDF file containing your Master’s Thesis or relevant research papers.