PhD Candidate in Development of Probabilistic Reliability Criteria in Distribution Grids Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Electric Energy at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the area of 'Development of Probabilistic Reliability Criteria in Distribution Grids.' This opportunity is part of the SecurEL Centre for Environment-friendly Energy Research, which aims to facilitate secure, resilient, and sustainable electricity distribution grids, supporting the transition to a net-zero-emissions society. NTNU is Norway’s leading technical university, located in Trondheim, and offers a vibrant academic environment with 9,000 employees and 43,000 students.

The PhD candidate will join the Power System Operation and Analysis (PSOA) research group, which fosters an open, inclusive, and collaborative atmosphere. Regular professional meetings, research colloquia, shared lunches, and social gatherings such as 'Friday coffee' sessions contribute to a supportive community. The position is funded by SecurEL, a consortium of 42 partners, including 7 research institutions, and offers access to a broad international network and opportunities for research stays with partners both nationally and abroad.

The research project is associated with Work Package 1 (WP1) of SecurEL, focusing on the 'Security of electricity supply.' The main objective is to design and apply probabilistic reliability criteria in the planning and operation of evolving distribution systems to ensure Security of Supply. The candidate will work closely with supervisors and research partners to identify comprehensive research questions and contribute to cutting-edge knowledge addressing operational stresses on power systems, including electrification, climate change, cyberthreats, and digitalisation. The project involves developing methods and indicators to monitor and predict Security of Supply, integrating resilience and cybersecurity, and performing risk analysis of complex interdependencies in intelligent electricity distribution grids.

The main supervisor is Associate Professor Vijay Venu Vadlamudi (IEL), with co-supervisors Senior Research Scientist Iver Bakken Sperstad (SINTEF Energy Research) and Professor Poul Heegaard (Department of Information Security and Communication Technology, NTNU). Duties include conducting high-quality research, participating in PSOA activities, completing academic coursework (minimum 30 ECTS), contributing to publications and popular science dissemination, and engaging in international activities such as conferences or research stays. Career-enhancing work, such as teaching or supervision, may be offered to motivated candidates.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Electric Power Engineering (specialization in electric power and/or energy systems), corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at the Master's level. Master's students may apply if the degree is completed before autumn 2026. Proficient programming skills in Python, Matlab, or C/C++ are required. A strong academic background with an average grade of B or better (NTNU scale) is expected; weaker grade backgrounds may be considered with relevant work experience or scientific publications. English language skills at B2 level (CEFR) are required, with TOEFL (79-101), IELTS (5.5-6.0), or Cambridge English (160-179) scores accepted. Admission to the Faculty's Doctoral Programme is required. Preferred criteria include a relevant Master’s thesis, proficiency in Python, English at C1 level, and proficiency in a Scandinavian language at B2 level or higher. Security clearance is required for employment.

The position offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund. The employment period is 3 years, with the possibility of an additional 3 to 12 months for career-enhancing activities. Additional benefits include working capital for the project, free Norwegian language training at a basic level (A2), favorable terms as a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and access to employee benefits. The position is conditional on external funding and requires physical presence at NTNU.

NTNU values diversity and aims to reflect the diversity in society, promoting equality and inclusion. The university encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and offers measures to promote gender balance in scientific positions.

To apply, submit your application and all required attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline (27 April 2026). Required documents include a cover letter, project outline, CV, transcripts, diplomas, documentation of English proficiency, and names of three referees. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. For questions about the position, contact Associate Professor Vijay Venu Vadlamudi at [email protected].

For more information about SecurEL, visit https://www.securel.no. For application details, see Jobbnorge.