"PhD on dynamical systems theory for hierarchical diagnostics"

Are you passionate about mathematical systems and control theory? Are you interested in working with next-generation high-tech systems? The main challenge lies in the reliable operation of the entire system, where many interconnected modules affect each other. In this project, you will be designing algorithms to guarantee the reliable operation of semiconductor machines, together with a highly innovative industrial partner in the Brainport region.

We invite highly motivated students with a strong background in mathematical control theory and a keen interest in machine learning to apply for the PhD position within the Dynamics and Control section at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology. The mission of the Dynamics and Control Section is to perform research and train next-generation students on understanding and predicting the dynamics of complex engineering systems to develop advanced control, estimation, planning, learning, and diagnostics strategies for intelligent autonomous systems.

Complex dynamical systems, such as semiconductor equipment, consist of many interconnected modules that are functionally, digitally, and physically interconnected. The throughput relies on continuous runtime while meeting stringent requirements on accuracy and performance. Monitoring the health of these systems is crucial, currently performed by human experts. This PhD project aims to design innovative monitoring algorithms for complex dynamical systems to automate fault isolation with diagnostics performance guarantees.

Current health monitoring technology is designed for either individual system components or the system as a whole, but neither fully addresses interactions or precise fault isolation. This position will develop hierarchical diagnostic tools for complex dynamical systems as part of the project on 'Holistic Design Automation for Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment'. You will collaborate with ASML to apply results in an industrial context, building a strong academic and industrial profile.

You will have access to graduate courses at the Dutch Institute of Systems and Control (DISC) and opportunities to collaborate with industry in the Brainport region and academic researchers worldwide. This PhD position is jointly supervised by Nathan van de Wouw, Tom Oomen, and Michelle Chong.

Requirements: A master’s degree in systems and control, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or applied mathematics; strong background in mathematical systems and control theory; experience or interest in hybrid dynamical systems, observer design, learning techniques, and optimization; knowledge of at least one programming language like Matlab or Python; ability to work independently and in a team; ability to collaborate with industry and academic researchers; fluent in spoken and written English.

Conditions of employment: Fixed-term contract for 4 years; full-time employment with an intermediate assessment after nine months; minimum 10% of time on teaching tasks; salary range €3,059 to €3,881 per month; benefits including pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, year-end bonus of 8.3%, and annual vacation pay of 8%; high-quality training programs; excellent technical infrastructure; on-campus children's day care and sports facilities; allowance for commuting, working from home, and internet costs; staff immigration team and tax compensation scheme for international candidates.