PhD Stipend in Large-Signal Modelling and Transient Stability Analysis of Wind Turbine Generators under Grid Faults (WindConnect MSCA Project) Aalborg University in Denmark

The Faculty of Engineering and Science at Aalborg University (AAU Energy) invites applications for a fully funded PhD stipend within the general study program, supported by the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) grant as part of the WindConnect project. The position is open for appointments from 1st June 2026 or soon after, with a duration of three years. The WindConnect consortium brings together leading experts from academia and industry across Europe, focusing on wind farm control and integration in sector-coupled power systems, including green hydrogen production. The project addresses the challenges of integrating wind energy into power systems while ensuring grid stability, flexibility, and sustainability.

As a PhD student, you will receive a competitive salary (plus allowances) totaling approximately 5354 Euro / 40,000 DKK per month. Additional funding is provided for technical and personal skills training, participation in international research events, and international secondments to other organizations within the network. You will develop both theoretical and applied work, maintaining close contact with real-world applications and participating in outreach activities beyond the research community.

The research focuses on large-signal modelling and transient stability analysis of grid-forming (GFM) wind turbine generators under grid fault conditions, with particular emphasis on multi-machine system interactions. Key research questions include developing large-signal models to capture nonlinear fault dynamics and current limiting behavior, understanding interactions among multiple wind turbine generators during severe grid faults, and identifying dominant dynamic components for reduced-order models. The project aims to provide robust modelling and analysis tools to support control and protection design for future wind-dominated power systems. Collaboration with Ørsted is integral, and the PhD student will work closely with colleagues from Ørsted and participate in company visits.

Applicants must have an excellent academic background with a master’s degree or equivalent in Energy Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Control theory, or a related discipline. Candidates in the final phase of their master’s degree are encouraged to apply but must complete the degree before starting. Additional requirements include not having lived in Denmark for more than 12 of the previous 36 months, less than four years’ full-time equivalent research experience, and not holding a doctoral degree. Skills in power electronics converters, control engineering, MATLAB, PLECS, PSCAD, and publications in international journals/conferences are advantageous. Excellent English language skills (oral and written), motivation, independence, teamwork, creativity, and openness are valued.

The PhD stipend is allocated to individuals who hold a master’s degree and is normally for a period of three years. Enrollment as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science is required, in accordance with Danish regulations. The PhD study includes completion of courses corresponding to 30 ECTS, teaching or knowledge dissemination experience, and an external research stay outside Aalborg University (preferably 3-6 months at a foreign institution).

AAU Energy is a dynamic and international research department, covering all areas of clean and sustainable energy systems within electrical, thermal, and mechatronic energy technology. The department is located in Aalborg and offers world-leading research and education, extensive workshop and laboratory facilities, and direct collaboration with industry. The position is offered in relation to the research program "Power Electronic Control Reliability and System Optimization," and the PhD student will be positioned in the section for "Applied Power Electronic Systems."

To apply, submit your application via Aalborg University’s recruitment system. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV, diplomas, publications (if any), and a project description (3-5 pages) merged into a single PDF. All documentation must be in English and follow the announcement’s guidelines. Applications not meeting requirements will not be considered. The assessment process includes shortlisting and evaluation by qualified experts. For questions, contact Professor Frede Blaabjerg or HR at AAU Energy.

For more information, visit the project page: WindConnect and the application portal: Apply here.