About the opportunity
At DTU Wind and Energy Systems, we are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how nonlinear interactions between turbulent flow structures influence wind turbine wake dynamics. The project combines fluid mechanics, high-fidelity simulations, and data-driven reduced-order modelling to advance our understanding of wind turbine wake behaviour under realistic atmospheric conditions. The PhD is conducted in close collaboration with Imperial College London and Professor Oliver Buxton, and includes an extended research stay at Imperial with the aim of bridging state-of-the-art numerical simulations and advanced laboratory experiments to create new modelling approaches for turbulent wind turbine wakes. The successful candidate will be enrolled in one of DTU’s general PhD study programmes.
Salary and benefits
- Salary and appointment terms based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations
- Full-time 3-year employment term
- Extended research stay at Imperial College London
- An international and rewarding research environment at a leading technical university
Who can apply?
- A two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree in engineering, physics, or similar
- Understanding of fluid mechanics, including turbulence, boundary-layer flows, and wake aerodynamics
- Understanding of dynamical systems
- Experience developing and using data-driven methods, such as POD and/or autoencoders, and spectral analysis
- Ability to work with large data sets
- Experience with scientific programming, e.g., Python
- Clear and concise communication skills in English
Required documents
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae including contact information for two references
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
When to apply
- Application deadline is 6 September 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
- Starting date will be coordinated in mutual agreement, but no later than 1 February 2027
How to apply
- Open the online application link
- Fill out the online application form
- Attach all application materials as one single PDF file in English
Additional information
- The assessment committee consists of Associate Professor Søren Juhl Andersen, Professor Henrik Bredmose from DTU, and Professor Oliver Buxton from Imperial College London.
- Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
- Open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates due to research in critical technology subject to special rules for security and export control.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Master's degree holders in engineering or physics with a strong foundation in fluid mechanics and turbulence
- Candidates with experience in data-driven methods like POD, autoencoders, and scientific programming in Python
- Researchers interested in an international PhD experience that includes a research stay at Imperial College London
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is a 3-year commitment, requiring a long-term focus on a specific research topic
- The role is on-site in Kgs. Lyngby, necessitating relocation for international applicants
- Candidates must ensure they have completed their master's degree before the start date
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This PhD is designed for those aiming to become experts in wind turbine wake dynamics. The collaboration with Imperial College London provides a unique opportunity to bridge numerical and experimental research, significantly enhancing the candidate's academic profile.
Our take
An excellent choice for aspiring researchers in wind energy and fluid mechanics; those who prefer a purely theoretical approach without experimental or data-driven components may find it less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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