Data-aware control of distributed parameter systems

(ref. BAP-2025-337)
Laatst aangepast: 07/06/25

Project

Complex engineering and biological systems naturally feature distributed parameters in their mathematical description, which model flow and propagation, diffusion and wave phenomena, and describe heredity and latency. Recently, the use of integral transformations to remove in-domain coupling in classes of hyperbolic partial differential equations, along with developments in mathematical biology, have sparked new research on the control of Volterra integral equations and delay-differential/difference equations with discrete and distributed delays.

The goal of the doctorate is to develop analysis and control design methods for distributed parameters systems. Particular attention will be paid to novel control architectures that exploit beneficial effects of distributed parameters by shaping integral kernels to enhance robustness and balance performance with ease of implementation. The project also aims at exploiting synergies of more established model-based approaches and complementary data-driven solutions emerging in the Systems and Control domain.

Prerequisites are a solid basis knowledge of linear algebra and differential equations, a strong interest in a mathematically oriented project, enthusiasm and a critical mindset. Familiarity with control theory and good programming skills are an advantage.

Profile

The ideal candidate has a master’s degree in engineering (Mathematical, Mechanical, Electrical, Control) or Mathematics (Applied, Computational mathematics).

Offer

We offer a fully funded PhD position in an international context for four years at the Numerical Analysis and Applied Mathematics (NUMA) section of KU Leuven, a hub for interdisciplinary research in the fields of Applied Mathematics and Systems & Control. The funding includes a very competitive salary and full social and medical insurance.

KU Leuven is one of the top 50 universities in the world (top 10 in Europe) according to the Times Higher Education ranking and it ranks #7 (top in Europe) in the World’s Most Innovative Universities ranking elaborated by Reuters. It offers an exciting multidisciplinary research environment, many opportunities for collaboration, and a broad range of training courses for PhD students. Located in Belgium, at the heart of Europe, 25 minutes by train from Brussels and less than 3 hours from cities like Paris, London, Cologne or Amsterdam, Leuven is a cultural city, whose rich history is tightly connected with the one of the university, founded in 1425. The city is characterized by a vibrant international student lifestyle.

Submit your application via the online application tool, including

a letter of motivation with a statement of skills and research interests
a curriculum vitae
university diploma copies and transcripts

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Wim Michiels, tel.: +32 16 32 70 64, mail: wim.michiels@kuleuven.be.

You can apply for this job no later than June 24, 2025 via the online application tool

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Heb je een vraag over de online sollicitatieprocedure? Raadpleeg onze veelgestelde vragen of stuur een e-mail naar solliciteren@kuleuven.be

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Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds

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Locatie: Leuven

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Solliciteren tot en met:
24/06/2025 23:59 CET

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