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Delft University of Technology has two vacancies for PhD positions within the research project Model-Predictive Railway Traffic Management of the Department of Transport and Planning (Faculty CEG) and the Delft Centre for Systems and Control (Faculty 3mE), funded by the Dutch technology foundation STW. Job description In this project new models and a new predictive control approach are developed for anticipative management of railway traffic networks. The project aims at closing the loop between timetabling and train operations with a continuous feedback of train positions and field data to allow fast rescheduling of train paths in case of disturbances. Using predictions based on railway traffic models, optimization procedures will be developed for finding the most effective measures for regulating train traffic in case of disruptions. This model predictive control (MPC) approach must maintain an up-to-date feasible plan on a national network level with respect to the current state of the infrastructure (speed restrictions, blocked tracks), resources (rolling stock and crews), train delays, and expected conflicts. The research contains three main ingredients: (1) Monitoring: developing a methodology to actively monitor train positions, speeds, and infrastructure availability, and to determine up-to-date running time estimates; (2) Predictive traffic modelling: developing a real-time railway traffic prediction model that can be updated continuously with the latest information and selected control decisions; and (3) Model predictive control: developing a model predictive control system that optimizes future control decisions by using predictions of the future behavior of the railway traffic. The core of the MPC approach is the railway traffic model for which an extension of max-plus linear systems is proposed. A max-plus linear system is a discrete-event dynamic system characterized by synchronization constraints which has been successfully applied to the modelling of large-scale railway networks. The conventional max-plus models assume a fixed structure of e.g. train orders and routings that may not be maintained in perturbed operations. In this project the model is extended to switching max-plus models, which can switch between different modes representing alternative decisions or circumstances. Effective modelling procedures are to be developed to build typical control decisions into max-plus models, such as rerouting, reordering, and changing meeting or overtaking locations. In this project the modelling and theory of switching max-plus linear systems will be studied with a focus on computational aspects and an embedding in a real-time MPC framework. The expected outcome is a model predictive railway traffic management system to be used as a supervisory and intelligent decision support system for railway traffic controllers and signallers. The project is supported by Arcadis, DHV, Movares, NS Reizigers, ProRail, and Siemens. Requirement Applicants should have an MSc degree with a background in systems and control, civil engineering, mathematics, computer science or a related field, and preferably a strong interest in railway operations, optimization, and data analysis. Fluency in spoken and written English is an essential requirement. Conditions of employment The successful candidates will be employed full-time by TU Delft for a fixed period of four years within which each candidate is expected to write a dissertation leading to a doctoral degree (PhD thesis). The starting salary for a PhD is € 2042 gross per month increasing to a maximum of € 2612 gross per month in the fourth year. TU Delft offers an attractive benefits package, including a flexible work week, free high-speed Internet access from home, and the option of assembling a customized compensation and benefits package (the 'IKA'). Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. Information and application For more information about these positions, please contact Dr. R.M.P. Goverde (T&P), <[log in to unmask]>. For more information on the departments, see <http://www.dcsc.tudelft.nl> and <http://www.transport.citg.tudelft.nl>. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV along with a letter of application and a course/grade list by 15 February 2010 to Ms. M.J.M.E. de Groot, <Application- [log in to unmask]>. When applying for this position, make sure to mention vacancy number 3ME09.44. See also the official vacancy at TRAIL research school, <http://www.rstrail.nl/website_nieuw/pages/vacancies/PhDRailwayTrafficMana gement.pdf> Dr. Rob M.P. Goverde Assistant Professor Department of Transport and Planning Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences Delft University of Technology