PhD Position – Innovative Pathways for Grid Resilience: Flexibility and Volatility Analysis in Electrical Distribution Grids

Achieving a secure, greenhouse gas-neutral energy supply is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century. At the Institute for Energy and Climate Research – Jülich Systems Analysis (IEK-3), we conduct research into how a sustainable energy system can be achieved and what it might look like. To this end, we develop a wide range of highly complex and detailed energy system models that we utilize to assess local-to-global energy systems in an integrated manner. Thereby, we aim to provide the best possible knowledge-based support for the implementation of the clean energy transition.

Your Job

In order to address the challenges associated with climate change, it is necessary to understand and design future distribution networks as we transition to sustainable energy sources. Moreover, the flexibility of decentralized energy sources, coupled with the increasing emphasis on incorporating self-sufficiency in buildings and energy-intensive technologies, has significant implications on distribution grids. Moreover, these changes would impact the reliability of the distribution grids and introduce challenges in resolving issues associated with the volatility of grid development and reinforcement. Thus, the objective of this doctoral thesis is to analyze the adaptability and instability in strengthening distribution grids by using geo-referenced synthetic distribution grids. Here, you will analyze the performance of distribution grids in different scenarios and configurations towards achieving greenhouse gas neutrality. To achieve this, you will perform the following tasks:

• Conduct comprehensive study on the flexibility of electrical distribution grids, evaluating various scenarios and their impacts
• Design and further develop geo-referenced synthetic distribution grids generation tool
• Design and implement different model configurations to simulate various grid configurations and assess their performance
• Investigate and apply optimization methods to improve grid resilience and flexibility
• Apply advanced data analytical techniques to analyze simulation findings and draw significant insights
• Determine cost-effective methods for grid reinforcement through performance evaluations
• Present research findings at conferences, publish articles in high-impact journals, and actively contribute to the wider scientific community

Your Profile

• Master`s degree in the field of Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, or a related field of study
• Interest in Energy systems analysis, integration of renewable energy sources, grid resilience
• Good Knowledge in electrical networks analysis and simulations
• Good Knowledge in mathematical optimization methods
• Experience in data analysis and programming (preferably Python)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment Fluent English language skills, both written and spoken. German language skills are advantageous

Our Offer

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• A highly motivated working group as well as an international and interdisciplinary working environment in one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Active further development of a comprehensive energy system model in order to support energy policy decision-makers in a scientifically sound manner
• Excellent scientific and technical infrastructure
• Opportunity to participate in (international) conferences
• The opportunity to complete a doctoral thesis within 3 years through professional supervision and internal support services; time taken to submit the final thesis for the last 16 doctoral students at IEK-3: 2.7 - 3.4 years
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/judocs
• Excellent conditions for remote (moving to the Aachen-Düsseldorf-Cologne region is not absolutely necessary) Flexible working hours, 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year) -

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: https://www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.