Postdoc in AI Controlled Engine – Combustion Mode Changes - DTU Construct

DTU Construct is searching for a Postdoc for AI Controlled Engine – Combustion Mode Changes. We need to reduce climate impact by replacing fossil fuel. In this project you can help with the green transition by enabling widespread use of alternative fuels.
We need to reduce climate impact by replacing fossil fuel. In this project you can help with the green transition by enabling widespread use of alternative fuels. As biofuels and e-fuels will be more expensive, at least initially, it is of paramount importance to use them with the highest possible efficiency. Traditional Spark Ignition and Compression Ignition Internal Combustion Engines, ICE, have been optimized for fossil fuels for more than 140 years but the new fuels have properties that can enable a more efficient operation. Advanced combustion processes like HCCI, SACI and PPC will be used in this project. The overall goal of the project is to use AI to optimize combustion in real time and select which combustion mode is the best at each instance.

The AI controlled engine will rely on closed loop combustion control. The exact realms of the combustion modes will change with engine conditions but also with the fuel. As an example, ethanol can easily be used with CI and PPC at high load where knock will severely limit SI operation. However, at low load CI combustion cannot be used but SI works well. By combining SI and CI, as well as the more advanced concepts of HCCI, PPC and SACI, in the same engine, we can use the best features of them.

Done right, the AI controlled engine can even be totally fuel agnostic, being capable of using any sustainable fuel without hardware modification. The AI will learn and adapt the realms of the combustion modes and fine tune the performance for each while the engine is operated. Self-tuning, adaptive, control algorithms will be used.

This part of the three-person project focuses on seamless mode jumps. At what conditions should the engine be using spark ignition (gasoline engine principle) and when should it change to compression ignition (diesel engine principle). When is it better to use advanced combustion modes?

Responsibilities and qualifications
You should have a good understanding of combustion and engines with a PhD or similar within one of the areas of combustion engines, controls and AI.

Knowledge of the advanced combustion concepts is a merit. Practical experience of engine operation in a lab is also a merit. Knowledge of control theory is a merit and even better is knowledge on adaptive control, machine learning and AI.

But the most important qualification is an eagerness to learn the mysteries of fuel-combustion-engine interaction.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

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 terms of employment
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. Starting date is 1 April 2025, or according to mutual agreement. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor Bengt Johansson [email protected].

You can read more about Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at www.construct.dtu.dk.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 15 February 2025 (23:59 Danish time). 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:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications
• Letters of recommendation are not mandatory but can be included.

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. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Civil and Mechanical Engineering develops and utilizes science and technical knowledge for the benefit of society and sustainable development. We undertake research, education, innovation, and scientific advice of the highest quality within building design and processes, building construction and safety, building energy and installation, solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, materials technology, manufacturing engineering, engineering design and thermal energy systems.

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.

Adresse:

Nils Koppels Allè
2800 Kgs. Lyngby