3 Fully Funded PhD Candidate Positions in GENIUS MSCA Doctoral Network at The University of Edinburgh University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom

The GENIUS MSCA Doctoral Network, based at the University of Edinburgh's School of Engineering, is recruiting three fully funded PhD candidates to advance the field of energy geostructures (EGs) for renewable-based, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Supported by the European Commission's Horizon Europe program, the GENIUS project addresses the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels by developing innovative geothermal heat exchange technologies that also provide structural support for buildings and infrastructure. The project aims to overcome key barriers in the field, such as the lack of expertise, technical integration knowledge, and scientific understanding of EGs in combination with other underground structures. Doctoral candidates will work on cutting-edge topics, including the development of numerical tools for geothermal performance, the performance of EGs connected to small grids for industrial waste heat storage, and the use of abandoned coal mines for heat decarbonization.

Each position offers a 36-month employment contract, full tuition coverage, a competitive stipend (4010 euro/month, adjusted for local cost of living), mobility and family allowances, and a travel/conference budget. Candidates will benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, an international and interdisciplinary research environment, and secondments to partner institutions in the UK and Europe, such as the University of Lille, TownRock Energy, the British Geological Survey, and the University of Derby. Applicants must hold a Master's degree in civil or geological engineering, demonstrate excellent English proficiency, and meet the MSCA mobility rule (not having resided or carried out their main activity in the UK for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment). Candidates must not already possess a doctoral degree.

The application process is open, transparent, and merit-based, with all applications submitted online through the GENIUS website. Required documents include degree certificates, transcripts, course descriptions, research proposal(s), CV, English language certificate, and reference contact information. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview. The intention is for all doctoral candidates to start by September 2026, though some positions may require an earlier start.

For more information and to apply, visit the GENIUS Doctoral Network website.