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PhD Candidate in Industrial High-Temperature Heat Pumps for Decarbonized Heat Generation Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
PhD Candidate position with gross salary normally NOK 580,000 per annum; employment period is 3 years; position is conditional on external funding from the Research Council of Norway.
Deadline
Nov 11, 2026
Country
Norway
University
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
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About this position
This PhD position is hosted by the Department of Energy and Process Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim, within the Refrigeration research group and its broader P&P environment. The project is part of the KSP initiative IndHTHP and is carried out in close collaboration with SINTEF Energi AS, giving the candidate access to joint research facilities and a strong applied research network.
The research focuses on industrial high-temperature heat pumps for decarbonized heat generation. The project addresses how heat-pump technologies can support the electrification of industrial heat, with emphasis on large-scale systems that can deliver higher supply temperatures, larger capacities, compact designs, and flexible operation. A central theme is the use of natural refrigerants and water-based systems in industrial settings, with attention to reliability, leak-tightness, and sector-specific safety constraints.
The PhD candidate will work on modelling, optimization, and validation of high-temperature heat-pump systems. Core activities include developing dynamic simulation models, analysing and improving cycle architectures, examining working fluids and control strategies, and assessing techno-economic performance and industrial applicability. The project also includes laboratory experiments and industrial field demonstrations, linking simulation work to practical validation in realistic operating conditions.
Within the research group, the student will benefit from established expertise in vapour compression systems using natural working fluids and from collaboration with senior researchers. Workshops and international activities are part of the environment, and the candidate is expected to contribute to academic dissemination, publications, conferences, and research visits. The position also includes supervision of project and master's thesis students, reflecting the group’s teaching and mentoring culture.
The broader project goal is to accelerate adoption of industrial high-temperature heat pumps in Norwegian industry and to support the development of future pilot and demonstration projects.
Funding details
PhD Candidate position with gross salary normally NOK 580,000 per annum; employment period is 3 years; position is conditional on external funding from the Research Council of Norway.
What's required
Applicants must meet admission requirements for the faculty's Doctoral Programme. A relevant Master's degree in refrigeration engineering is required, including a major independent project of at least 30 ECTS equivalent to a master's thesis. Master students may apply, but the degree must be obtained and documented before starting, no later than September 2026. Applicants must have a strong relevant academic background with an average grade of B or better on NTNU's grading scale, or an equally strong foundation if no letter grades are available. Required experience includes dynamic modelling of energy systems with heat pumps in Dymola/Modelica and experience with experimental investigations and data analysis. Applicants must show strong interest in modelling and simulation of complex multiphysical systems including heat and mass transfer, and have good oral and written English skills at B2 level. Scientific publications and good oral and written Norwegian or another Scandinavian language are preferred.
How to apply
Apply electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline. Include transcripts and diplomas for Bachelor's and Master's degrees, CV, a copy of the Master's thesis or draft, a project outline, a short motivation letter, any publications or other relevant research work, certificates, and contact information for three referees. If your education was taken abroad, also attach documentation of scope and quality, and any diploma supplement or HK-dir statement.
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Professors
Professor at Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Norway
Research Interests
Techno-economic Analysis
Environmental Science
Mechanical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Heat Transfer
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.