Rofice Dickson
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Doctoral Researcher, sustainability of Power-to-X (PtX) value chains Aalto University in Finland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Doctoral Researcher salary about 3140 € per month (gross); fixed-term contract initially for 2 years, with possible extension based on progress evaluation, revised project plan, and available funding.
Deadline
Nov 23, 2026
Country
Finland
University
Aalto University
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About this position
The Sustainable Systems research group in the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering at Aalto University is seeking a doctoral researcher to study the sustainability of Power-to-X (PtX) value chains. The project sits at the intersection of renewable energy, chemical engineering, and process systems engineering, with a focus on decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors through computational modelling and optimization.
The research aims to develop decision-making models and optimization strategies for the cross-sector integration and operation of PtX technologies. You will investigate how intermittent renewable electricity can be decoupled from downstream chemical processing, and how technical, economic, and environmental performance can be maximized under uncertainty. The work centers on designing efficient computational frameworks for low-carbon energy transition pathways in Finland and beyond.
In this role, you will model operational dynamics, intermediate storage, and variable feedstocks to push the flexibility limits of energy transition pathways. You will formulate techno-economic and life cycle-driven mixed-integer linear programming models to optimize complete PtX value chains. The project also involves engagement with academic collaborators and external industry stakeholders, as well as dissemination through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
You will join a multidisciplinary research environment with access to a comprehensive model library covering PtX technologies, unit operations, training materials, and sustainability assessment frameworks. The position is embedded in a broader department with expertise spanning chemical engineering, materials technology, metals processing, efficient energy technologies, and digitalization, offering a strong setting for research in sustainable process and energy systems.
Funding details
Doctoral Researcher salary about 3140 € per month (gross); fixed-term contract initially for 2 years, with possible extension based on progress evaluation, revised project plan, and available funding.
What's required
Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems Engineering, or a closely related field. A strong research background in process systems engineering of energy systems is required, along with solid experience applying mathematical programming such as MILP or MINLP to energy or process systems. Demonstrated programming or optimization skills in GAMS, Python, Julia, or MATLAB are required. Knowledge of techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment methods is considered an advantage, as is familiarity with Aspen Plus/Hysys, PRO/II, SimaPro, or openLCA. Candidates should have a strong interest in renewable energy pathways, cross-sectoral integration, and decision-making under uncertainty. English proficiency at the mandatory level is required.
How to apply
Apply online through Aalto University’s Workday recruitment system using the “Apply Now” link. Submit the application in English with a cover letter, CV, contact details of at least two references, and copies of academic transcripts and degrees. Applications must be submitted by 22.11.2026, and only Workday applications are accepted.
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Professors
Prof. at Aalto University
Finland
Research Interests
Energy Engineering
Power System
Decarbonization
Solar Technology
Clean Energy
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.