[100% fees covered and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £20,835 (2025/26 UKRI rate).]

This fully funded PhD opportunity at Newcastle University focuses on developing advanced protection strategies for low voltage (LV) networks with a high penetration of power electronic devices (PEDs). The project is a collaboration between Newcastle University and Scottish Power, supported by the Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award (IDLA) and the UKRI/EPSRC, and runs alongside the £8m D-Suite Beta Strategic Innovation Fund project. As part of the program, students will have the chance to undertake a placement within Scottish Power, gaining valuable industry experience.

The research addresses the increasing complexity of LV network protection due to the integration of PEDs such as Soft Open Points, Static Compensators (STATCOMs), and Smart Transformers. These devices are essential for supporting the uptake of low-carbon technologies, including electric vehicles and heat pumps, but introduce challenges like voltage/current waveform distortion and reduced fault levels. The project aims to overcome these issues by developing innovative protection schemes using comprehensive electromagnetic transient (EMT)-type computer simulations.

Students will integrate classical protection methods with cutting-edge data-driven approaches, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, to enhance the reliability, security, selectivity, speed, and robustness of LV network protection. The research is expected to contribute significantly to the safety and efficiency of future energy networks.

The position is open to UK and international applicants. Candidates should hold, or expect to obtain, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or international equivalent) in Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all sub-skills). International applicants may require an ATAS clearance certificate for visa purposes.

Funding includes full coverage of tuition fees and a minimum annual tax-free living allowance of £20,835 (2025/26 UKRI rate). The PhD will commence in October 2026 and run for four years. The application deadline is 28th February 2026.

To apply, candidates should use the University’s Apply to Newcastle Portal, select the relevant programme (code 8060F), and provide a personal statement and the studentship code ENG161. For further information, contact Professor Vladimir Terzija or Dr Matthew Deakin at Newcastle University.