Multidisciplinary system-level trade-offs w.r.t. environmental impact for reusable first stages

Problem Definition:
The assessment of environmental impact of launch vehicles depends on both architectural and technological choices (type of return strategy, type of propellant, engine cycle). System-level trades-off between performance, cost and environmental impacts require multidisciplinary analysis and optimization with a focus on the design of a robust reusable first stage with respect to model hypotheses (emissions, LCA) and uncertainties.

Research Objectives:
Development of a multidisciplinary optimization approach to deal with model uncertainties in system-level trade-offs assessment
Multi-fidelity model enrichment along the DN project with new generated high-fidelity data
Application to the design of reusable first stage for different types of architectures (toss-back, glide-back)

Expected Results:
Trajectory simulation and optimization (ascent and return) for different architectures and technologies
Use of multi-fidelity aggregation techniques and adaptive refinement strategies (to reduce the uncertainties of the climate models)
Uncertainty quantification and propagation up to the global performance / environmental impact
Balance between overall performance and climate impact through dedicated optimization strategy

Secondments:
Paul Scherer Institut (PSI, Villingen, Switzerland, ca. 4 months): Inclusion of system level model in the global LCA of launcher
Institut supérieur de l\'aéronautique et de l\'espace (ISAE, Toulouse, France, ca. 4 months): Update of rocket emissions at the system level

Benefits:
You will be working within our international group of > 30 researchers with experience in a broad range of sciences.
You will get in contact with the other members of this international consortium.
You will benefit from the well-structured training program offered by the host institution and the SLICE consortium to develop skills and thorough understanding of space transportation systems and their environmental impact.
You will be employed by the host organization for 36 months.
You will participate in international conferences and secondments to other organisations within the SLICE network and in outreach activities targeted at a wide audience.
A competitive salary according to MSCA regulations (see page 118ff, https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/wp-call/2023-2024/wp-2-msca-actions_horizon-2023-2024_en.pdf ), including a living allowance, a mobility allowance and, if eligible, a family allowance. The stated allowances represent the gross funding amounts. Employer contributions to social security, health insurance, and other statutory costs will be deducted in accordance with the applicable national regulations.


Please find additional information in the Information package for Marie Curie fellows in doctoral networks (https://op.europa.eu/s/z831).