PhD Position on Energy Systems Modeling
Conduct advanced modeling of energy systems and markets to support carbon neutrality and sustainable energy transitions.
Best for:Best for engineering, economics, or operations research graduates with a strong interest in energy systems modeling and quantitative market analysis.
Overview
KU Leuven's Department of Mechanical Engineering invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions focused on advanced energy systems and market modeling. Embedded within the Energy Systems Integration and Modeling (ESIM) research group and EnergyVille, the selected candidates will investigate either heat pricing in district heating networks or the optimization of small modular reactors (SMRs) in power markets. The work involves developing and utilizing quantitative models to analyze energy policies, market design, and system integration. Successful applicants will join a dynamic academic environment, collaborate with international project partners, and contribute to cutting-edge climate and energy research.
What you'll do
- Develop, adapt, and deploy advanced energy system and market models to evaluate policy and technological impacts.
- Investigate heat pricing mechanisms, waste heat valorization, and multi-vector energy system interactions for district heating networks.
- Optimize the participation of small modular reactors (SMRs) in electricity markets and evaluate broader system-wide impacts.
- Collaborate closely with international partners as part of EU-funded research projects.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science degree in Engineering or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; good communication skills required
Instruction: English
- Strong academic background with excellent study results
- Demonstrated interest in energy systems, operation, planning, and markets
- Good English communication skills
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-31
Applicants should express their interest by sending an email directly to Prof. Erik Delarue with the required candidate details and a motivation statement in the body text. Attach an academic CV to the email submission. Do not use the online application system for the initial application stage.
- CV
- Statement of motivation
Contact
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