PhD Position Imaging Heat Transfer of Multiphase Flows using MRI

PhD Position Imaging Heat Transfer of Multiphase Flows using MRI

Job description 

Efficient heat transfer management is essential for advancing sustainable energy systems and addressing the challenges of the energy transition. As industries move toward cleaner and more efficient technologies, the optimization of the thermal processes, especially in multiphase systems, becomes increasingly important. Yet, visualizing these processes is particularly challenging due to the coupling of heat transfer, phase change and complex flow behavior in opaque environments.

In this PhD project you will develop and apply Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) protocols to non‑invasively map, in three dimensions and over time, temperature, velocity and phase distributions in configurations such as pool boiling and Rayleigh–Bénard convection.

You will join the Process & Energy (P&E) department at TU Delft’s Mechanical Engineering faculty, working in a lab equipped with a wide range of advanced measurement modalities, including a preclinical MRI system dedicated to multiphase research. The position includes conducting experimental research, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at conferences, and mentoring BSc and MSc students. Additionally, you will have opportunities for professional development through both technical and non-technical courses.
 

Job requirements 

• We are looking for a self-motivated and creative candidate with:
• An MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
• A strong foundation in thermodynamics and fluid dynamics, and confidence in applying mathematical and physical concepts. 
• Proven experience with experimental work and a drive to explore and develop new techniques. 
• Interest in learning MRI methods (no prior knowledge of MRI is required, although some experience is a strong plus).
• Basic image processing skills in Python or Matlab.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English
   

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) 

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. 

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration. 

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Mechanical Engineering 

From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems. 

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation. 

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work. 

Conditions of employment 
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met. 

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2901 per month in the first year to € 3707 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. 

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.  

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.  

Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. M.R. Serial, via m.r.serial@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 15 June 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae;
• Motivation letter highlighting your relevant research skills and motivation for doing this PhD project;
• Diplomas and transcripts of your BSc. and MSc. studies, including a certified list of grades;
• Name and contact details of at least two academic referees (preferably your MSc. thesis supervisor).

You can address your application to Dr. M.R. Serial.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements. 

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure. For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.