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PhD Candidate (MSCA) in Optimal High-Temperature Heat Pump Control SINTEF Energy in Norway
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 22, 2026
Country
Norway
University
SINTEF
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About this position
SINTEF Energy is offering a three-year PhD Candidate (MSCA) position in optimal high-temperature heat pump control within HeatMinds, a European Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network.
The project is centred on developing advanced control strategies for the dynamic operation of high-temperature heat pump systems, with direct relevance for reducing fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in industrial processes. The research will focus on techniques such as Model Predictive Control (MPC), Reinforcement Learning (RL), and self-optimising control. These methods will be tested in industrial decarbonisation and energy flexibility scenarios using a pilot-scale laboratory system.
The position is based at SINTEF Energy in Trondheim, Norway, and includes collaboration with Brunel University of London, where the candidate will undertake doctoral studies under joint supervision. The project also includes an international research secondment at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Low Carbon Industrial Processes.
This opportunity is aimed at candidates with a strong background in control engineering, thermal engineering, and mechanical engineering. Applicants should hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent, with strong academic results or clear research potential. Final-year master’s students may apply if the degree is completed and documented before 1 January 2027. Candidates must also satisfy the admission requirements for the Mechanical Engineering PhD programme at Brunel University of London and demonstrate excellent written and spoken English.
Valued experience includes mathematical modelling and simulation of dynamic thermal systems, thermodynamic cycle analysis, control theory and PID tuning, scientific programming in MATLAB or Python, optimisation methods, and familiarity with advanced control or thermal management systems. The employment period is three years and is funded through the EU Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network Grant HeatMinds; the position is conditional on external funding.
Applicants must apply online and provide a cover letter, CV, transcripts, BSc/MSc diploma in English with grading scale, and contact details of two references. The deadline is 22 November 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent, or be in the final year provided the degree is completed and documented before 1 January 2027. A strong academic record (average grade B or better) or demonstrated research potential is required. Candidates must meet the admission requirements for the Mechanical Engineering PhD programme at Brunel University of London and have excellent written and spoken English. Desired background includes mathematical modelling, simulation and analysis of dynamic thermal systems, thermodynamic cycle analysis, control theory and PID tuning, proficiency in MATLAB/Python, advanced control algorithms such as MPC and/or RL, heat pump or thermal management system analysis and design, optimisation methods, and self-optimising control.
How to apply
Apply online via the provided application form. Submit a cover letter, CV, grade transcripts, BSc/MSc diploma in English with grading scale, and contact details for two references. Applications without the required documents will not be considered.
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