PhD in Advanced Thermal Energy Storage for Flexible and Efficient Cooling Systems Technical University of Denmark in Denmark

Shape the Future of Energy: PhD in Advanced Thermal Energy Storage for Flexible and Efficient Cooling Systems

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering (DTU Construct), is offering a fully funded 3-year PhD position focused on developing advanced thermal energy storage solutions to make cooling systems more reliable and energy-efficient. This project addresses the significant energy consumption of cooling systems in modern society, from data centers to food storage, and aims to optimize the use of renewable energy sources through demand flexibility and innovative storage technologies.

Project Overview:
The research centers on phase change materials (PCMs) that store 'cold' energy by transitioning between solid and liquid states, enhancing the flexibility and reliability of cooling systems. A large-scale pilot installation (150 kWh capacity) at DTU Campus will be used for experimental testing, control, and optimization of latent thermal energy storage, with operational launch planned for March 2026. The project will also develop a novel laboratory method for determining the charge (energy stored) in cold storage systems using PCMs.

You will work at the intersection of experimental testing, storage modelling, and energy system monitoring and control. The project includes developing a digital twin to link physical experiments with advanced control and operation strategies, enabling techno-economic investigations for flexible cooling and power market integration. The PhD is part of the Clean-Energy Transition Partnership “La-Flex,” involving collaboration with Norwegian, German, and Danish companies and research institutions. A research stay at NTNU (Trondheim, Norway) is expected.

Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to improve measurement and monitoring of energy stored in cold storage using PCMs.
• Collect and analyze data from the full-scale pilot installation at DTU.
• Develop and utilize a computer model (digital twin) for advanced control and operation strategies.
• Contribute to techno-economic analysis of flexible cooling and power market integration.
• Assist in teaching relevant courses and supervise BSc and MSc student projects.

Eligibility and Requirements:
Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in Thermal Energy Engineering, Renewable Energy, Mechanical Engineering, or Material Science. Priority is given to candidates with strong knowledge in heat transfer, thermodynamics, or energy systems, and experience with PCMs or latent thermal energy storage is advantageous. Hands-on experience with experimental setups, measurement techniques, system modelling (e.g., TRNSYS, Python), and control engineering (digital twins, model predictive control) is desirable. Analytical skills, systematic problem-solving, and proficiency in scientific writing and English are required. Applicants may apply before completing their master's degree but must have it before starting.

Funding and Benefits:
This is a fully funded position with salary and terms based on the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations' collective agreement. The appointment is for 3 years, with a preferred start date of 1 February or 1 March 2026. The position offers excellent opportunities for scientific development, international collaboration, and contributing to the global energy transition.

Application Process:
Submit your complete application online by 4 January 2026. Applications must include a cover letter, CV, grade transcripts, diplomas, and supporting documents in English, combined into a single PDF. Late applications will not be considered. For further information, contact Associate Professor Gerald Englmair at [email protected].

DTU is a leading technical university with a strong international research environment, committed to sustainable development and innovation. The Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering undertakes high-quality research and education in building energy, materials technology, and thermal energy systems.

For more details and to apply, visit the official application link.