PhD in Flexibility Services from Electrified Process Industry: A Focus on Steam-Heated Processes Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology focuses on flexibility services from electrified process industry, with a particular emphasis on steam-heated processes. The research is part of the Intelligent Energy Systems (IES) program within the Electrical Energy Systems (EES) group, which collaborates closely with industry and is involved in the NWO-funded FLEXPower project. The project aims to optimize the use of flexibility in electrified process plants by leveraging dynamic behaviors and market participation, contributing to the decarbonization of energy-intensive sectors such as chemical manufacturing, food processing, and paper production. Key objectives include characterizing thermal demand profiles, assessing the feasibility and performance of industrial heat pumps, developing models to quantify flexibility potential (including load shifting, demand response, and ancillary services), evaluating the techno-economic feasibility of providing flexibility services, and assessing grid impact and capacity management approaches.

The work plan involves energy portfolio creation, flexibility service definition, and evaluating implementation potential in energy markets. The PhD student will collaborate with industrial partners, participate in project meetings, and have access to real industrial data. Applicants should have a MSc degree in a relevant field (electrical or mechanical engineering), strong modelling and programming skills, and experience in energy markets and optimization.

The position offers a four-year full-time contract, competitive salary and benefits, and opportunities for professional development in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international environment. The application process is online, requiring a cover letter, CV, and references. The position remains open until filled, with a formal deadline of December 10, 2025.