PhD Position: Power System Security and Grid Resilience with Exascale Computing RWTH Aachen University in Germany

This PhD position at RWTH Aachen University offers an exciting opportunity to advance the future of power system security and grid resilience by leveraging exascale computing. The research focuses on understanding and enhancing the resilience of electrical grids under extreme scenarios, such as multiple faults, high shares of renewable energy, and equipment failures. You will conduct security and resilience studies for highly stressed power systems, evaluate system vulnerabilities, and design recovery and stability strategies using large-scale simulation workflows.

Key responsibilities include building and expanding realistic, continent-scale power system models (such as the European transmission grid), implementing and testing GPU-capable, parallelized simulation frameworks, and collaborating with experts in high-performance computing and power systems to improve scalability and computational performance. The position also involves disseminating research findings through scientific publications, conferences, and collaborations, as well as supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s students and representing the institute in national and international research contexts.

Applicants should possess an excellent Master’s degree in electrical engineering, computational engineering, or a related discipline, with a strong foundation in power system modelling and simulation. Solid programming skills in Python, C++, or similar languages are required, along with an interest in high-performance computing and numerical simulation. Fluency in written and spoken English, as well as an independent, analytical, and team-oriented working style, are essential.

The successful candidate will join a diverse and supportive research group at one of Europe’s leading research centers, working on cutting-edge energy system models to develop solutions for Europe’s energy system decarbonization. You will have access to world-class infrastructure, including the Jülich Supercomputing Centre, and benefit from professional development opportunities through JuDocS, targeted services for international employees, and strong support for building a career in academia or industry.

The position is offered for a fixed term of 3.5 years, with the first 6 months serving as an orientation and probation period. Compensation is in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund), plus 60% of a monthly salary as a special payment (Christmas bonus). Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, flexible working arrangements (including partial remote work), and a collaborative working atmosphere at Forschungszentrum Jülich. The institution values diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

For further details on doctoral degrees, benefits, and diversity initiatives, please refer to the provided links. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online and contact the institution for more information if needed.