PhD Opportunities 2026 | Microclimate Sensing

PhD Opportunities 2026 | Microclimate Sensing (Experimental Research) & Adaptive Grid CFD Modeling at TU Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions focused on advancing greenhouse microclimate research through experimental sensing and computational modeling. These interdisciplinary projects aim to improve greenhouse productivity and energy efficiency by developing next-generation microclimate observation systems and adaptive CFD models for greenhouse and vertical farming applications.

Available PhD Positions

1. PhD Position: Microclimate Sensing – Experimental Research

Develop high-resolution experimental microclimate sensing systems to monitor heat, moisture, CO₂, and airflow within greenhouse canopies, enabling precise climate control for sustainable crop production.

2. PhD Position: Microclimate Adaptive Grid CFD Modeling

Develop advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models to simulate greenhouse airflow, heat transfer, moisture transport, and plant-climate interactions using adaptive grid techniques.

Position Overview

About the Projects

Greenhouse and vertical farming require accurate monitoring and prediction of microclimate conditions to maximize crop productivity while reducing energy consumption. These PhD projects address this challenge by combining experimental sensing technologies with advanced numerical modeling to better understand airflow, heat transfer, moisture dynamics, and CO₂ transport within greenhouse environments.

The research supports the development of smarter climate control strategies for sustainable horticulture.

Research Responsibilities

PhD Position: Microclimate Sensing – Experimental Research

The selected researcher will:

• Design and develop high-resolution microclimate sensing systems.

• Build and evaluate autonomous climate monitoring boxes.

• Measure canopy temperature, humidity, radiation, CO₂, and airflow.

• Test innovative sensor configurations using reference measurement systems.

• Develop IoT-enabled climate observation networks.

• Investigate heat, moisture, and CO₂ transport within greenhouse canopies.

• Collaborate with researchers, industry partners, and the horticulture sector.

PhD Position: Microclimate Adaptive Grid CFD Modeling

The selected researcher will:

• Develop adaptive CFD models for greenhouse airflow and climate analysis.

• Model plant-canopy interactions across multiple spatial scales.

• Simulate airflow, temperature, water vapor, and CO₂ transport.

• Investigate aerodynamic resistance and plant-climate interactions.

• Integrate CFD results into multilayer greenhouse climate models.

• Validate simulation results using experimental data from the companion sensing project.

Research Focus Areas

The projects cover advanced topics including:

• Greenhouse Climate Engineering

• Vertical Farming

• Microclimate Monitoring

• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

• Environmental Sensing

• Heat & Mass Transfer

• CO₂ Transport

• Water Vapor Dynamics

• IoT-Based Climate Monitoring

• Crop-Climate Interaction

• Sustainable Horticulture

• Water Management

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should possess:

• A Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Water Management, Agricultural Engineering, or a related discipline.

• Strong interest in environmental sensing, greenhouse systems, CFD, or climate modeling.

• Experience in experimental research, numerical simulations, or data analysis is advantageous.

• Excellent communication, teamwork, and analytical skills.

• Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research.

Why Join TU Delft?

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to:

• Conduct cutting-edge research in sustainable greenhouse technology.

• Work on real-world challenges in climate-smart agriculture and vertical farming.

• Collaborate with international researchers, industry partners, and the horticulture sector.

• Access advanced laboratory facilities, experimental greenhouse systems, and high-performance computing resources.

• Develop expertise in environmental sensing, CFD modeling, and sustainable agricultural technologies.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the official TU Delft careers portal, submitting all required academic documents and supporting materials as outlined in the official vacancy announcements.

About TU Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is one of Europe's leading technical universities, recognized globally for excellence in engineering, environmental sciences, water management, and sustainable innovation. Through interdisciplinary research, TU Delft develops advanced technologies that address global challenges in agriculture, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

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