PhD Scholarships in Applied Mathematics - DTU Compute

If you are interested in gaining the qualifications and experience to pursue a career where advanced mathematical techniques are developed and used in areas such as digital manufacturing, then a PhD in mathematics from DTU Compute is an ideal start. We seek two ambitious and highly motivated PhD candidates with a strong background in mathematics and an interest in developing new geometric concepts and algorithms for potential applications in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction sector.  The positions will be at the Section for Mathematics at DTU Compute, in the greater Copenhagen area, and will involve collaboration with project partner SINTEF AS in Norway.

The positions are funded by the EIC Pathfinder Challenge project STACK, the objective of which is to pioneer a mathematical framework and develop computational design tools for freeform surface “stackability”, complemented by 3D elastica theory, for potential applications in advanced digital fabrication workflows.

Responsibilities and qualifications
For both positions you are expected to:

• Develop novel mathematically based theory and algorithms directed towards the goals and milestones of the STACK project. 
• Publish results in international academic journals and present results at conferences.
• Collaborate with partners within the STACK consortium.
• Perform some limited teaching and other departmental duties.

Additionally, the requirements for the two positions are:

Position 1:
You will work on theory and algorithms related to surface “stackability”, the basic idea of which is to decompose a surface into groups of pieces that are geometrically similar. This involves finding algorithms for general surfaces, based on local and global geometric properties, as well as considering special surface classes for this property. A mathematically related degree and knowledge of, and an interest in, geometry of surfaces in 3-space is an essential prerequisite.  Knowledge of computational geometric algorithms, optimization, and machine learning techniques would be favourably regarded.

Position 2:
You will focus on the problem of mathematical modelling with 3D elastic curves, applications in hot blade cutting, as well as relations with stackability. A mathematically related degree, with knowledge of, and an interest in, geometry, physics, and mathematical modelling is a prerequisite. Knowledge of optimization and machine learning techniques is an advantage.

Applicable for all scholarships

You must have 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.

Approval and Enrolment  
The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education .

Assessment
The assessment of the application will be made by Associate Professor David Brander.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. 

The preferred starting date for both positions is 1 October 2024, or according to mutual agreement. The positions are full-time.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from David Brander (e-mail: [email protected] ). 

You can read more about DTU Compute at www.compute.dk.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application procedure 
Complete online applications submitted by 25 June 2024 (23:59 Danish time) will receive full consideration.  Applications are considered continuously. 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
• Letters of recommendation are optional and can be mailed directly to [email protected]  

In the field “Please indicate which position(s) you would like to apply for”, please indicate which project you are applying for (title from the above list of PhD projects  or individual research projects).

Incomplete applications will not be considered. You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Compute is a unique and internationally recognized academic department with 433 employees and 10 research sections spanning the science disciplines mathematics, statistics, computer science, and engineering. We conduct research, teaching and innovation of high international standard – producing new knowledge and technology-based solutions to societal challenges. We have a long-term involvement in applied and interdisciplinary research, big data and data science, artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), smart and secure societies, smart manufacturing, and life science. At DTU Compute we believe in a diverse workplace with a flexible work-life balance.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.