PhD Scholarship (ConEC Project): The Research Group in Sustainable and Renewable Electrical Technologies (SURET) at the University of Cadiz, Spain, invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship under the national research project “Dynamic Modelling and Intelligent Control of Energy Communities in Active Distribution Networks (ConEC)”.
This four-year PhD position focuses on advanced modelling, control, and experimental validation of energy communities operating within active distribution networks, contributing to the decarbonization and digitalization of modern power systems.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Sustainable & Renewable Electrical Technologies (ConEC Project) – University of Cadiz, Spain
Designation
Funded PhD Student (Doctoral Researcher)
Research Area
- Sustainable and Renewable Electrical Technologies
- Active Distribution Networks (ADNs)
- Energy Communities (ECs)
- Microgrids and Smart Grids
- Intelligent Control, Forecasting, and Energy Management Systems
- Power Electronics and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL/PHIL) Testing
Location
Research Group in Sustainable and Renewable Electrical Technologies (SURET)
Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Cadiz, Spain
Primary workplaces:
- Higher Technical School of Engineering of Algeciras (ETSIA), Algeciras, Cádiz
- UCA-SEA Innovation Center, Algeciras, Cádiz
Eligibility / Qualification
Required Degree
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, Power Electronics, Control Systems, or a closely related field.
Technical Experience (Preferred)
- Renewable energy systems, microgrids, and energy storage systems
- Power electronic converters and control systems
- Simulation and control tools such as MATLAB, Python, OPAL-RT, Siemens PLCs
- Experimental validation using HIL and PHIL platforms
Language Requirements
- Strong proficiency in English (spoken and written)
- Knowledge of Spanish is an advantage but not mandatory
Soft Skills
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Proactive, self-motivated, and adaptable approach to research
- Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams
Job Description
The selected PhD candidate will conduct cutting-edge research within the ConEC project, aiming to enhance cooperation between Energy Communities and Active Distribution Networks. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing techno-economic design and sizing methods for energy communities using tools such as HOMER and MATLAB
- Creating dynamic equivalent models of energy communities and active distribution networks
- Designing and implementing intelligent real-time control strategies using adaptive and predictive control with generation and load forecasting
- Experimentally validating solutions using advanced laboratory facilities, including HIL and PHIL platforms (OPAL-RT, Typhoon HIL, Cinergia systems)
- Implementing control algorithms on real microcontrollers such as Siemens PLCs, Raspberry Pi, and dSPACE MicroLabBox
- Publishing research outcomes in high-impact international journals and conferences
The PhD candidate will enroll in the PhD Program in Sustainable and Energy Engineering at the University of Cadiz and benefit from extensive training (minimum 600 hours), international research stays, and opportunities to obtain an International Mention for the doctoral degree.
Funding and Salary
- Year 1–2: €19,000 per year
- Year 3: €20,000 per year
- Year 4: €25,000 per year
- Total duration: 4 years
Funding provided by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities (Spain).
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Motivation letter outlining research interests and relevant experience
- Proof of English proficiency (if available)
Applications and inquiries should be directed to the Research Group in Sustainable and Renewable Electrical Technologies (SURET) through the official group website:
https://tep023.uca.es/en
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview.
Last Date for Apply
Applications are encouraged as early as possible to align with the expected start date of September/October 2026.
