Call for expression of interest in PhD Studies

Doctoral Position in Modelling and Optimization of Future Energy Markets & Systems

Study Program: Applied Informatics / Intelligent Information Systems

Demand Response (DR) is an enabler for the system's adequacy, and it is mainly used to reduce the need for investments in infrastructure. One way to tackle the problem of DR is to enable demand-side flexibility on energy consumers. This research focuses on modelling and optimising future energy systems by contributing to a platform for flexibility trade. JRC is currently participating in several H2020 projects developing frameworks that allow self-configuration and self-optimisation of distributed energy nodes. The candidate could use the knowledge built on these projects to analyse how the fluctuation growing production is associated with an increasing share of renewables to build models that support services to energy retailers. The potential use of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) of the lab for modelling, validation and verification could also be considered for assessing the use of BESS in demand-side flexibility.

We are looking for candidates with the interest and desire to work in an interdisciplinary team able to deliver the best solutions in the highest quality. A successful candidate should have the ability to work in a team, be well motivated with sound analytical skills and the willingness to assume responsibilities such as carrying out research in the predefined area, disseminating results through scientific publications, participating in existing projects or future proposals.

We welcome candidates with a university degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and Power System Engineering or related areas who are interested in working on the field of energy systems.

Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory.

Knowledge in the following areas is advantageous but not mandatory:

Machine learning methods
Basic development skills in Java or Python
Model development and validation using Matlab/Simulink or equivalent
Energy systems

Collaborative Doctoral Partnership (UNIZA, JRC)

PhD topic will be developed within the framework of the collaborative doctoral partnership between the Joint Research Center of the European Commission (JRC) and the University of Žilina (UNIZA). It is expected that the student will start and finish PhD studies at the University of Žilina and will spend a considerable part of the study (up to 24 months) at the JRC in Ispra (Italy). During this time period the student will be paid according to the corresponding grant holder scheme^[1][2]. The JRC will also associate with the topic JRC advisor and will provide relevant data and access to the necessary research infrastructure.

[1] https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/sites/jrcsh/files/jrc_grantholder_rules.pdf

[2] https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/sites/jrcsh/files/jrc_ispra_vademecum-post-2014_en.pdf

Terms and Conditions - FRI UNIZA

Eligibility criteria - JRC

In accordance with Article 2a) of the GH Rules, candidates should, at the start of the employment contract with the JRC:

have the nationality of a Member State of the EU or a country associated to the Research Framework Programmes. Candidates from other countries may also apply. However, only the Director-General of the JRC may allow their recruitment, following the security clearance and derogation procedure for non-EU country nationals in force at the JRC. COLLABORATIVE DOCTORAL PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT No. 35372 (page 16 of 17)
be enrolled in a PhD programme with UNIZA.

Selection procedure

The selection is made in two phases.

The UNIZA will make a selection process according its internal rules for PhD studies. UNIZA establishes a short-list of two to five candidates per PhD position.
The UNIZA informs the short-listed candidates about the results of the selection and that it will send their application (CV and motivation letter) to the JRC.
The decision on the recruitment of the candidate is taken by the JRC, following the below selection process and in accordance with the GH Rules

How to apply

The electronic application form can be found at: https://vzdelavanie.uniza.sk/prijimacky

Enclosures for the doctoral degree application (to be sent via e-mail to ):

· Curriculum Vitae (Europass format),

· certified copy of the diploma (Master level) including the Diploma Supplement - for applicants from universities other than UNIZA,

· certified copy of the certificate on state examination for applicants from other universities,

· copy of the diploma supplement for applicants from other universities,

· framework project on the topic of dissertation thesis in the range of maximum 5 pages. The project contains the current state-of-the-art, theoretical background, research questions and other relevant information needed to address the selected topic. The applicant may request cooperation on the framework project of the advisor of the subject in question,

· the list of published science and technical papers

· other documents in electronic form, attesting to other professional and scientific activities of the applicant,

· proof of payment of the admission fee.

Application deadline: 31 May 2021
The date of the admission procedure (UNIZA): 21 - 22 June 2021

For more information about the application process contact Assoc. Prof. Michal Koháni - Vice-dean for Science and Research -

Information about the topic and conditions of the doctoral studies within the Collaborative doctoral partnership with the Joint Research Center of the European Commission:

Information Leaflet