The University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) is offering an exciting opportunity for highly motivated researchers to apply for a fully-funded PhD Research Fellowship in the field of Renewable Energy Flexibility. This position is situated within the Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, a leading hub for engineering and technological innovation in Norway.
This PhD scholarship aims to address the challenges of integrating fluctuating renewable energy sources (such as wind and solar) into the energy grid. The successful candidate will work on developing innovative methods, models, and optimization frameworks to enhance the flexibility, resilience, and efficiency of modern smart grids and hybrid energy systems.
Vacancy Overview Table
| Position Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Research Fellow (PhD Candidate) |
| Host Institution | University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) |
| Research Area | Renewable Energy Flexibility, Smart Grids, and Energy System Modeling |
| Location | Porsgrunn, Norway |
| Employment Type | Full-time, Temporary (3 Years) |
| Application Deadline | As soon as possible (Applications processed continuously) |
Research Area & Scope
The rapid transition towards renewable energy requires major upgrades in energy system flexibility. This PhD research will focus on:
- Mathematical modeling, control, and simulation of multi-carrier energy systems (electricity, heat, and green fuels).
- Developing optimization algorithms for demand response, energy storage systems (batteries, thermal, and hydrogen), and microgrids.
- Assessing the flexibility potential of industrial and residential energy consumers.
- Developing smart grid integration strategies to cope with the intermittent nature of wind and solar power.
Location
The position is based at the University of South-Eastern Norway, Campus Porsgrunn. Porsgrunn is a vital industrial town in Norway with close links to major process industries, offering a vibrant, real-world testing ground for cutting-edge energy research.
Eligibility & Qualification Requirements
To be considered for this prestigious PhD Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Degree: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (equivalent to 120 ECTS) in Energy Technology, Electrical Engineering, Process Engineering, Cybernetics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline.
- Academic Performance: Candidates should have an excellent academic record, typically with an average grade of B or higher on the ECTS scale.
- Technical Skills: Strong programming and modeling skills (e.g., in MATLAB, Python, GAMS, Modelica, or similar software) are highly desirable.
- Language Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English language skills. Standardized English tests (TOEFL, IELTS) may be required unless the applicant qualifies for an exemption under Norwegian regulations.
Scholarship Description & Benefits
In Norway, PhD fellows are treated as full-time university employees rather than just students. The successful candidate will receive:
- Attractive Salary: State-regulated salary scale for PhD Research Fellows (typically starting around NOK 532,000+ gross annually).
- Comprehensive Benefits: Excellent pension scheme, health coverage, and social security benefits through the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities to participate in international conferences, research collaborations, and professional training programs.
- Supportive Environment: Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and a highly collaborative academic research community.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the official Jobbnorge recruitment portal. To ensure your application is considered, please prepare and upload the following documents in English:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A cover/motivation letter highlighting your research interests and suitability for this project.
- Certified copies of your Master’s and Bachelor’s degree certificates and academic transcripts.
- Contact information for 2-3 academic or professional references.
- A copy of your Master’s thesis or any relevant scientific publications (if applicable).
Last Date to Apply
11 October 2026
Official Application Link
For more detailed information about the position and to submit your application, please visit the official job listing:
Click Here to Apply for the USN PhD Position
