Senior Machine Learning Scientist in Renewable Energies

The research group for Algorithms, Models, and Optimization (AMO) specializes in developing and supplying the intelligence that forms the backbone of any modern technical design into the various systems and application domains across VITO’s unit for Water and Energy Transition (WET) at EnergyVille to support the energy transition. The team has a wide range of expertise in mathematical modelling, optimal control, control theory, machine learning and data science, interoperability and semantics; coupled with domain knowledge from different sectors (e.g., low voltage grids, building energy management systems, EV charging). The team develops and maintains a portfolio of Python-based tools/frameworks such as PYSIMOF for optimal control and our black box modelling framework, which has been used in various applications such as forecasting energy demand and generation, and modelling of different systems.

Assignment

• You focus on the development of practicable solutions for the energy, building, and water sectors that apply these algorithms and models. You will do this together with a team of highly skilled colleagues/specialists;

• You lead and conduct research and development of techniques such as mathematical optimization, combinatorial optimization, pragmatic mathematical modelling of physical systems, optimal control and model predictive control, and their applications in the domain of (renewable) energies. You can count on the support of specialists in the different techniques and areas;

• You actively take part in national and European research projects and responsibly contribute to their deliverables. You communicate produce results with international partners. You are willing to manage the contributions and work at VITO side;

• You publish research results in international, peer-reviewed, journals in collaboration with PhD students and you present your research results in international forums;

• You participate in contract research and support the IP production and valorization within VITO

• Together with the team, you are responsible for acquiring new research projects and writing research proposals.

• You hold a master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, physics or a relevant similar education. A PhD in a related field is a strong plus;

• You have expertise in control-oriented modelling of physical (energy) systems, process engineering, optimal control, and optimization. You have a strong interest in mathematical and (distributed) computational optimization techniques.

• You are capable to implement your solutions. You have an affinity to scientific programming, modelling, and optimization techniques. Python experience is a plus;

• You have a general interest into the area of sustainability and specifically in the energy transition. You are willing to learn about the energy system and energy-specific challenges;

• You are self-motivated and ready to take ownership. You work well in a team and enjoy contributing and growing in close collaboration with highly skilled peers;

• You are excited about growing into related areas and extending your expertise;

• You have excellent communication skills verbally and in writing. Proficiency in English is essential. You are willing to interact on an international level.

Offer

• The possibility to work activity based: your activities determine your work place. On average, you are expected at our office in Genk twice a week. Hybrid work arrangements and/or working in a satellite office in Antwerp-Berchem, Leuven, Ghent, Ostend or Mol is possible.

• An attractive salary package supplemented with extra-legal benefits such as allowances, insurances and a modular holiday package.

• A great deal of freedom and flexibility in your job that enables you to achieve an attractive work-life balance.

• Innovation is our core value, we give our employees the opportunity to educate themselves and keep up to date within their field of expertise, moreover, we expect this.