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PhD Position – Analysis of Integrated Power, Gas and Hydrogen Systems

At the Institute of Climate and Energy Research – Energy Systems Engineering (ICE-1), our focus is on developing models and algorithms for simulating and optimizing decentralized, integrated energy systems. These systems are characterized by the high spatial and temporal variability of energy supply and demand, and by the high degree of interdependence of material and energy flows. Our research aims to provide scalable, faster‑than‑real‑time capable methods and tools that enable the energy‑optimal, cost‑efficient and safe design and operation of future energy systems.

Your Job

This PhD position focuses on scenario development, as well as the modelling, simulation and analysis of coupled power and gas grids in Europe. The research project aims to develop advanced, cross‑sectoral simulation frameworks that can be used to investigate the interaction between electricity, natural gas and hydrogen infrastructures under future energy transition scenarios, and to support informed decision‑making for integrated energy systems.

Your tasks in detail:

• Analyse the impacts of future energy transition pathways on the planning and operation of European power and gas infrastructures, and evaluate system behaviour under diverse infrastructure, market, and policy scenarios using scenario‑based modelling and simulation
• Develop and implement models for the simulation and analysis of coupled electricity and gas networks, with a focus on large‑scale European energy infrastructures
• Assess interactions between power, gas, and sector‑coupled energy systems, with a focus on operational flexibility, cross‑sector dependencies, and potential bottlenecks
• Enhance and extend our simulation tools, especially GasNetSim, to support evolving research questions and comprehensive integrated system analyses
• Disseminate your findings through scientific publications, conferences, and collaborations
• Supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students and represent the institute in national and international research contexts

Your Profile

• Excellent Master’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, energy systems, computational engineering, or a related field
• Strong background in numerical methods, mathematical modelling, and network simulation or analysis
• Good understanding of power systems, gas networks, or coupled multi‑energy systems
• Proficient in programming, especially in Python; experience with C/C++ is an advantage
• Interest in scientific software development, large‑scale infrastructure modelling, and computational research
• Strong analytical and independent working style
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated

Our Benefits for You

• Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
• Networking & Exchange: You will participate in international conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
• Supervision & Support: We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor
• Work‑life balance: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and on‑site appointments
• Annual Leave: You get 30 days of annual leave
• Knowledge & Development: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates (JuDocS)
• Health & well‑being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive company health management programme with a wide range of options, including a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga classes and much more. In addition, our company medical service and an experienced social counselling team are available to assist you on site
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD‑Bund. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year‑end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital‑forming benefits. All information about the TVöD‑Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website (pay scale table on page 66 ff. of the PDF download)
• Fixed‑term: The position is limited to 3,5 years
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more.

Diversity and Inclusion

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.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey

Location and Compensation

Place of Employment: Jülich

Start Date: To the next possible date

Salary: Pay group 13 (75%) TVöD‑Bund

Application Deadline: The position will be published until it is successfully filled.