PhD positions – High-performance Simulation and Optimization of Energy Systems

Your Job:

In response to the urgent demands arising from climate change in an ever-growing global economy, as well as the goal of reducing dependence on imported energy sources and raw materials, the European energy system is facing a paradigm shift: away from a system based on the import of fossil fuels and relying on centralized utilities operated by large power plants, towards a dynamic, supply- and demand-driven approach, often organized in local energy communities where renewable energy is the main source. To maintain an efficient, sustainable, and stable energy supply, the integration of different infrastructures such as the electricity, gas and heat sectors and the fluctuating availability of energy pose complex challenges for both the European energy system and local energy systems.

We are currently seeking several PhD students for the following research topics:

• Modelling and analysis of European energy market
• Modelling and analysis of European electricity and gas networks
• Modelling and analysis of local energy communities (LEC)
• Development of model-based energy scenarios
• Development of databases and model interfaces for energy system models of different scope and granularity
• Development and programming of a simulation platform using high-performance computing infrastructures
• Development of integrated software tools for automated data analysis
• Integration of web interfaces for user-friendly operation and application

… and more

Your Profile:

• Very well completed scientific university studies (Masters) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Energy economist
• Strong mathematical background
• Knowledge of the functioning of energy markets and their regulation
• Interest in energy systems and energy infrastructures, especially regarding power and gas grids
• Very good knowledge of modelling, preferably of energy systems
• Excellent knowledge and experience in programming (e.g. Python, Matlab, C, C++)
• Ability to accurately handle big data
• Experience with HPC infrastructures is welcome
• Excellent ability for cooperative collaboration
• Very good communication skills in English
• The command of German would be an advantage

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change. We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• Possibility of pursuing a PhD at RWTH Aachen University supervised by Prof. Benigni
• A highly motivated research group in one of the biggest research centers in Europe
• An excellent scientific and technical infrastructure: both necessary conditions for a successful PhD thesis at RWTH Aachen within three and a half years
• Participation in project meetings and conferences
• Strong support and mentoring for setting up a future career in science and/or the industry
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/judocs
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service

The position is for a fixed term of 3,5 years, where the first half year serves as orientation and probation period. Pay is in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.