Applications are invited for two fully funded PhD Positions in Energy Systems Modeling at the division of Applied Mechanics and Energy Conversion (TME), Department of Mechanical Engineering at KU Leuven, embedded within EnergyVille in Belgium. Under the supervision of Prof. Erik Delarue, the Energy Systems Integration and Modeling (ESIM) research group is seeking highly motivated researchers to support the transition toward European carbon neutrality through advanced energy systems and market modeling.
Quick Overview: PhD Positions at KU Leuven
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher (2 Vacancies) |
| Host Institution | KU Leuven (embedded in EnergyVille) |
| Department | Department of Mechanical Engineering (TME Division) |
| Research Area | Energy Systems Modeling, Energy Markets, District Heating, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) |
| Location | Leuven / Genk, Belgium |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Net salary of approx. €2,500/month + full benefits) |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Last Date to Apply | Open until filled (Applications reviewed continuously) |
Designation
Doctoral Researcher / PhD Candidate (Two positions available within the Energy Systems Integration and Modeling research group).
Research Area
Energy Systems Integration and Modeling, focusing on:
- Renewable energy integration and multi-vector energy system operation
- Electricity and heat market design and equilibrium modeling
- District heating networks and waste heat valorization
- Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) integration into electricity and process steam markets
Location
KU Leuven, Department of Mechanical Engineering (TME), Leuven, Belgium (embedded within EnergyVille, Genk, Belgium).
Scholarship Description
To support the European Green Deal’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, the ESIM group develops cutting-edge energy system models. KU Leuven is offering two dedicated PhD research tracks:
Position 1: Pricing of Heat in District Heating Networks
This project takes place in the context of an international initiative funded by the EU LIFE programme. The researcher will model and evaluate heat market design, multi-vector interactions to secure revenue streams (e.g., waste heat valorization and energy flexibility services to the power grid), and evaluate innovative financing mechanisms across different scales of district heating solutions.
Position 2: System Integration of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
This position investigates the evolving role of SMRs as flexible providers of fossil-free heat and power for energy-intensive industries. The researcher will develop methods to optimize SMR participation in electricity markets and assess system-wide impacts when co-producing electricity and industrial process steam.
What the Scholarship Offers:
- Full Funding: A 4-year doctoral scholarship offering a net monthly salary of approximately €2,500.
- Degree: Successful defense results in a PhD in Engineering from KU Leuven.
- Training: Specialized doctoral training to become an expert in energy systems modeling and market analytics.
- Networking: Collaboration with international academic and industrial partners across Europe and attendance at leading international conferences.
- Employee Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage, university sports facility access, and full access to research infrastructure.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Candidates must satisfy the following criteria:
- Academic Background: Master of Science degree in Engineering, Operations Research, Economics, or a closely related discipline from a recognized institution.
- Academic Record: Demonstrated record of excellent study results.
- Domain Interest: Strong passion for energy systems planning, operations, energy policy, and market mechanisms.
- Technical Skills: Prior experience with scientific programming tools such as Python, Julia, MATLAB, or GAMS is considered an advantage.
- Communication: High level of proficiency in written and spoken English.
How to Apply
Important: Candidates should not apply through the general online portal in the initial stage. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to register via the official university recruitment platform later.
To apply, send an email directly to Prof. Erik Delarue at: jad@kuleuven.be.
Your email body must strictly include the following information in bullet points:
- Full Name
- Master’s Degree: Degree specialization, University, Country, and Year obtained
- Master’s Thesis: Title, Year of completion, and Supervisor name
- Motivation Statement: A single paragraph (maximum half an A4 page) stating your motivation for applying to this vacancy at KU Leuven. Reviewing the group’s recent publications prior to drafting is highly recommended.
- Attachment: Attach a complete and updated academic CV (PDF format).
Note: If you do not receive a reply within two weeks of sending your application email, your profile has not been selected for the next round.
Last Date for Apply
Rolling / Open Until Filled: Selection decisions are made as soon as suitable candidates are identified. Applicants are strongly advised to apply as early as possible.
Apply Link
Direct applications and inquiries should be sent to the supervisor via email:
Send Application Email (jad@kuleuven.be)
For full vacancy information and departmental details, visit the official posting: KU Leuven Official Job Posting (Ref: BAP-2026-583).
