PhD researcher Optimization and Control of Integrated Energy Systems

The challenge

The EU aims to reduce 55% greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and to become climate-neutral by 2050. This requires the large-scale electrification of its energy system coupled with the integration of renewable energy generation. The transition towards fully renewable energy-based power systems will introduce more challenges and uncertainties such as grid bottlenecks and congestion, which raises the urgent need for new control strategies in order to maintain the ability of the system to provide the consumers with reliable supply of electricity while optimizing the use of the network in order to integrate more renewable energy resources.

This research focuses on developing solutions to facilitate energy transition within the concept of smart grids considering different dynamics and behaviour of system components. During the project, the PhD candidate will perform research on developing a mathematical model of the control strategy addressing the identified challenges considering the model of an integrated energy system and its components. Modeling the factors of uncertainty (e.g., resource prices, demand, and generation) using scenarios, forecasts, or stochastic processes and incorporate uncertainty into the decision-making models by developing stochastic optimization approaches such as stochastic programming and reinforcement learning.

Your profile

A master's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics or a similar related discipline preferably with a background in power and energy system.

A strong programming skill in Python for numerical modelling and data analysis.

A sound background in mathematical optimization, preferably combined with experience in simulation and data science.

You are able to design and execute your own research with a strong creative but analytical mind, and a critical attitude toward the assessment of results

You have strong communication skills, and you are able to establish connections and cooperate with relevant practitioners for the design and execution of your research.

Proficient in written and oral English (C1; above IELTS 7 or equivalent)

Our offer

A full-time 4-year PhD position.

We provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating international research environment with excellent facilities.

A starting salary of € 2.770,- gross per month in the first year and increasing to a salary of € 3.539,- in the fourth year gross per month;

A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

A solid pension scheme.

Minimum of 29 leave days in case of full-time employment.

We provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment to accelerate your further professional and personal growth.

The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with lots of facilities for sports and other activities.

Information and application

You are welcome to contact Dr. Elham Shirazi ( [email protected] ) for any questions you might have.

Please submit your application before January 13, 2024, by using the “Apply now” button. Applications should include the following:

Your academic CV, including at least two contacts for reference (we will not contact them before your consent).

A motivation letter, including explanation of (a) your motivation for this PhD role and interest in this project, (b) your research interest.

A transcript of your grades from both bachelor's and master's degrees.

Your Master's thesis and (if applicable) a paper that you have written, in which you demonstrate your scientific and scientific skills.

The first (online) job interviews will take place in the week of 22nd of January.

Please do not send your applications by email, we will not process them.

About the organisation

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.

Want to know more Shirazi, E. (Elham)

Assistant Professor

Shirazi, E. (Elham)

Assistant Professor

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Elham for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.

Contact

Phone:+31534898083

Email:[email protected]

How to apply Step 1

Apply. When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.

Step 2

Selection. The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.

Step 3

1st interview. The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.

Step 4

2nd interview. In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.

Step 5

The offer. If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer.

Your Colleagues

Hulscher, S.J.M.H. (Suzanne)

Personal page

Boogaard, A.H. van den (Ton)

Personal page

Munnink, K.J.H. (Karen)

Personal page

Our mission Human Touch

At the UT it's all about people, in line with our university's High Tech Human Touch philosophy. In everything we do, the well-being and future of our students and staff are paramount. From research and teaching to personnel management, campus management and the use of new technologies.

Our mission We are a university of technology

Our university is a public institution that serves society. We are accountable to society for the ways in which we use our academic freedom. We are responsible for ensuring that the power of science and technology is harnessed to achieve the best possible impact in a changing world. We cherish our rich tradition of combining technical and social sciences in our five profiling themes: Improving healthcare by personalized technologies; Creating intelligent manufacturing systems; Shaping our world with smart materials; Engineering our digital society; and Engineering for a resilient world.

Our mission We help to strengthen society

We help society meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. But we are also transparent about what science and technology can and cannot do in finding sustainable solutions. And help translate these solutions into everyday life.

Our mission We are sustainable

We want our communities to flourish and show resilience, so we seize opportunities for innovation. We are knowledgeable and have an eye for what society needs. Our students and staff receive all the guidance they need in their quest for ecological, social and economic sustainability. “The University of Twente is all about people. Our sustainable technologies help to strengthen society.”

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