PhD Candidate in Risk-Based Power System Operation and Transformer Capacity Utilisation
Join NTNU’s Department of Electric Energy to advance risk-based transformer loading strategies and optimise power grid reliability.
Best for:Best for master’s graduates in electric power engineering or related fields with strong Python programming skills and an interest in power system reliability and optimisation.
Overview
This PhD position at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) focuses on developing methods to increase transformer loading limits in power systems while ensuring reliability and socio-economic benefits. The candidate will work within the KSP UPLOAD project, collaborating with industry partners and SINTEF Energy Research. The role involves quantifying trade-offs between reliability and capacity availability, optimising market operations, and integrating probabilistic risk criteria into security-constrained models. The successful applicant will contribute to both academic research and industry-relevant solutions, gaining experience in a collaborative and inclusive research environment.
What you'll do
- Conduct high-quality research on quantifying socio-economic trade-offs between reliability and transformer loading limits in power systems.
- Develop methods for optimally allocating additional transfer capability across day-ahead, intraday, and balancing markets.
- Integrate probabilistic and deterministic reliability criteria into security-constrained optimal power flow models.
- Collaborate with industry partners and SINTEF Energy Research to pilot new risk control concepts for transformers.
- Complete academic training with a minimum of 30 ECTS coursework.
- Contribute to publications in relevant journals and participate in popular science dissemination.
- Engage in international activities such as conferences and research stays abroad.
- Participate in research group activities, including weekly colloquia and social gatherings.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Electric Power Engineering or a related field, with a specialization in electric power and/or energy systems. The degree must correspond to a five-year Norwegian course, with at least 120 credits at the master’s level.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; B2 level (CEFR) or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL 79-101, IELTS 5.5-6.0). Native speakers exempt.
Instruction: English
- Proficient programming skills in Python
- Strong academic background with an average grade equivalent to B or better on NTNU’s grading scale
- Ability to obtain required security clearance
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken) at B2 level of the CEFR
- Ability to work independently and maintain discipline in research
- Must hold a master’s degree in Electric Power Engineering or related field before starting the position (no later than autumn 2026)
- Must meet NTNU’s requirements for admission to the Faculty’s Doctoral Programme
- Must have the ability to obtain required security clearance
- No age or nationality restrictions mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: Open until filled (rolling deadline) · open until filled
Applicants must submit a complete application through NTNU’s online recruitment portal. The application must include a cover letter, CV, transcripts, a list of publications (if any), and a copy of the master’s thesis. Two references must be provided. Further details on required documents are available in the application guidelines.
- Cover letter
- CV
- Transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- List of publications (if applicable)
- Copy of the master’s thesis
- Two reference letters
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
NTNU - Department of Electric Energy· Recruitment Contact
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