PhD Position Advanced Lattice Boltzmann Methods for Multiphysics Simulations of Nuclear Reactors

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to advance the state-of-the-art in the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) for challenging multiphysics applications in nuclear energy systems. The research will focus primarily on Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs), while the developed methodologies are expected to be broadly applicable to other advanced reactor concepts.

The Lattice Boltzmann Method has emerged as a powerful alternative to conventional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approaches due to its flexibility, excellent scalability, and suitability for massively parallel computing architectures. This project aims to extend and optimize LBM techniques to address the complex coupled phenomena occurring in advanced nuclear reactors.

Key research topics include:

• Thermal-hydraulic phenomena in nuclear reactor systems
• Phase-change processes such as melting and solidification in molten salt environments
• Gas injection and multiphase flow phenomena, including the introduction of inert gases into molten salts
• Turbulent flow modelling
• Coupled neutron transport and reactor physics
• Precursor transport
• Chemical interactions and species transport
• Corrosion and material degradation processes

In addition to developing new physical models, the project will investigate advanced numerical methodologies, including:

• Novel and improved boundary-condition treatments
• Advanced collision schemes
• Multigrid and accelerated solution techniques

A major component of the project is the efficient implementation of these methods on modern GPU-based high-performance computing platforms. Owing to the inherently parallel nature of the Lattice Boltzmann Method, substantial computational performance gains can be achieved, enabling high-fidelity simulations of complex reactor systems.

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Develop and investigate new Lattice Boltzmann methodologies and improve existing techniques for nuclear engineering applications
• Develop numerical methods for coupled phenomena involving fluid flow, heat transfer, phase change, neutron transport, chemistry, and corrosion
• Optimize algorithms for execution on modern GPU architectures and high-performance computing systems

Job requirements

We are looking for an excellent PhD student who has:

• An MSc in a relevant field, such as (applied) physics, chemical engineering or mechanical engineering
• Creativity combined with a sound academic attitude
• Excellent knowledge of transport phenomena and modelling in this field
• A strong interest in numerical modelling and programming, with excellent skills in both areas
• Excellent communication skills in English, both in writing and speaking

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes 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.

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.

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