PhD in Developing an integrated framework for energy system modelling (0.7 - 1.0 FTE)

Utrecht University, Netherlands

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PhD in Developing an integrated framework for energy system modelling (1.0 FTE)

PhD in Developing an integrated framework for energy system modelling (0.7 - 1.0 FTE)

Job description
Today, society is facing a multitude of challenges to come to a sustainable society. Climate change is the most pressing challenge and a rapid energy transition is the key to lower GHG emissions. The combined and integral use of different modelling techniques, for informing policy and many stakeholders about optimal transition pathways, is gaining ground to provide a better information base for planning and decision making. However, it also requires much more development to answer key questions about the rapidly changing energy system. 
In this project you will help develop a joint modelling approach together with other PhD and senior researchers. This PhD project targets to enhance energy system modelling capabilities, making use of state of the art data management and computing capabilities. Modelling frameworks for energy system and scenario analyses are available, making use of optimisation and simulation methods and interlinked with macro-economic models. Nevertheless, new and future demands and problems require increase of the level of detail (e.g. with respect to technologies covered, spatial and temporal resolution, infrastructure and system integration). Balancing between data resolution and quality, computation capabilities and the achievable reliability as well as improved insight in the uncertainties of Energy System Model results is hard to manage. This PhD project focuses on what improvements are achievable (building on international state of the art knowledge and capabilities available at the research partners in this project), implements them (in close collaboration with other PhD projects in this programme) and demonstrates results of combined use of model framework components and improved scenario’s. This will allow to connect the gained insights to other parallel projects within the programme that focuses on modelling the energy and climate transition.
The PhD-project is part of the programme KCET, which aims to generate integrated insights for the energy transition between TNO, Utrecht University, and other partners, You will closely collaborate with other PhD researchers in this programme and staff from the participating institutions.

Qualifications
The ideal candidate has a background and proven interest in energy modelling, programming techniques (e.g. Python) and big data management techniques. A relevant Master degree in e.g. engineering, energy and environmental sciences, etc. It is a multi-disciplinary project in nature and affinity with or interest of working in an interdisciplinary environment is important.

Offer

You will be offered a temporary position (0.7 - 1.0 FTE), initially for one year with an extension to a total of four years upon a successful assessment in the first year, and with the specific intent that it results in a doctorate within this period. The gross salary ranges between €2,541 in the first year and €3,247 in the fourth year of employment (scale P according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year. 

In addition, Utrecht University offers excellent secondary conditions , including an attractive retirement scheme, (partly paid) parental leave and flexible employment conditions  (multiple choice model). For more information, please visit working at Utrecht University .

About the organization

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University , the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major societal themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Sustainability.

Utrecht University's Faculty of Geosciences studies the Earth: from the Earth's core to its surface, including man's spatial and material utilisation of the Earth - always with a focus on sustainability and innovation. With 3,400 students (BSc and MSc) and 720 staff, the faculty is a strong and challenging organisation. The Faculty of Geosciences is organised in four Departments: Earth Sciences, Human Geography & Spatial Planning, Physical Geography, and Sustainable Development.


You will be employed at Utrecht University and carry out the research at both TNO and UU.

Additional information
For more information about this position, please contact: Prof. dr. Ernst Worrell (Professor Energy, materials & environment), via [email protected] or Prof. dr. André Faaij, via [email protected] .

Apply
Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. We welcome employees with a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives. To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation via the 'apply' button.

The application deadline is
15/11/2022
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