About Dr. Rafał Noga
I solve control, estimation and optimization problems in complex physical systems — especially when the dynamics are nonlinear, measurements are incomplete, objectives conflict, and an inherited approach stops working reliably across the operating envelope. Advanced model-based control since 2007: real-time NMPC for the LHC cryogenics at CERN, advanced control for utility-scale wind turbines at IAV, and airborne-wind-energy flight automation at SkySails.
Industry and research credentials
Currently available for freelance control-engineering and European R&D engagements.
SkySails Power
Developer Flight Automation — autopilot, trajectory optimisation, and airborne wind-energy systems.
IAV GmbH
Wind-turbine controls and forecasting applications, 2017–2020.
CERN
Researcher and doctoral student 2007–2013: cryogenic control, nonlinear MPC, moving-horizon estimation, and the published LHC NMPC work.
evosoft / Siemens
Industrial SCADA, automation, and production-software experience.
My story
It started as a hobby: I built my first electronic circuits around 1995 and began programming microcontrollers and designing websites in 1999. From 2000 to 2004 I implemented simple control problems on microcontrollers. Since 2007 I have worked on advanced model-based control, beginning with PhD research, where I developed advanced control algorithms for complex industrial systems. That deep theoretical foundation, combined with a focus on practical implementation, has shaped my approach ever since.
I have worked across industries — from chemical plants and cryogenic systems to machine builders and wind turbines — helping companies achieve measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and stability. I work in five languages and have delivered hundreds of talks and training sessions across Europe.
Today, I focus on bringing senior control, estimation, and optimization judgement to small and mid-sized industrial companies that often do not have direct access to this kind of expertise.
My capabilities
Deep theoretical foundation plus many years of hands-on practice in R&D contexts, developing new types of systems where the solution is not obvious at the start. I adapt language to the audience and deliver key insights in a compact and engaging way.
Feedback loop design and tuning
PID, cascade, feedforward and ratio control — structured loop design, identification, tuning and commissioning for stable, responsive and robust closed-loop operation.
APC and MPC
Advanced controls enable efficient operation of non-linear systems with strong couplings, operated across a wide range of conditions under strict constraints.
State estimation
Combine models with available sensors to improve accuracy, reduce the need for expensive sensors and estimate non-measurable variables.
Optimization and trajectories
Scheduling, logistics and resource allocation at plant level, and trajectory optimization for machines to increase throughput, reduce wear and lower energy costs.
Modeling and simulation (digital twins)
Evaluate ideas and operating strategies without touching production. Parametric/sensitivity studies guide investment; models enable optimization and operator training.
Operator simulators
Train operators offline to reduce interruptions and waste. Cover standard tasks, complex situations and safety-critical scenarios.
Workshops and courses
PhD-backed teaching and hundreds of public talks. Key knowledge delivered compactly and engagingly, tailored to experts, decision makers or technicians.
Tools and stack
Cutting-edge, industry-standard tools chosen per application. Seamless integration with existing software and collaboration via version control.
Credentials
Education
- PhD in Control Systems (Spain)
- MSc in Automation Engineering
Experience
- Control engineering since 2000; advanced model-based control since 2007
- NMPC, state estimation and trajectory optimization on real systems — CERN, IAV, SkySails
- Hundreds of training sessions
Languages
- Polish (native)
- German (C2)
- English (C2)
- French (C2)
- Spanish (C2)
European R&D Consortia
Available for European R&D consortia. Named technical partner / scientific advisor for Eureka, Eurostars-3, Horizon Europe, and ZIM-international R&D proposals. Details →
Let's work together
Whether you need a short technical fit call or a longer implementation partner, I am here to help.
Freelance profile for recruiters and procurement: availability, day rate, skills, dated experience →