Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf
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PhD Student (f/m/d) – Dynamic Modeling and Experimental Analysis of Supercritical CO2 Brayton Cycles in Waste Heat Recovery Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Mechanical Engineering
Funding
Salary and social benefits according to TVöD-Bund; possible classification in salary group 13 according to TVöD-Bund; 30 days of paid holiday leave and company pension scheme (VBL).
Deadline
Nov 6, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf
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About this position
The PhD project is hosted by the Institute of Fluid Dynamics at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), within the Department of Thermal Energy and Process Technology. The research sits at the intersection of thermo-fluid dynamics and magnetohydrodynamics, with a strong application focus on improving the sustainability and energy efficiency of industrial processes.
The doctoral work centers on the dynamic modeling and experimental analysis of supercritical CO2 (sCO2) Brayton cycles for waste heat recovery and power generation. The successful candidate will investigate dynamic load profiles in carbon-intensive processes, study the steady-state and transient behavior of sCO2 cycles using the CARBOSOLA test facility, and build a dynamic cycle model grounded in both literature and experimental results.
The project combines numerical, experimental, and systems-oriented research. It includes simulation and optimization of flexible energy systems with integrated sCO2 cycles, evaluation of control and operating strategies, and techno-economic analyses to estimate the potential benefits of different operating concepts. The outcome is expected to support design recommendations and control strategies for modular sCO2 cycles and their broader implementation.
The position is embedded in an open, diverse, and international research environment with a structured PhD program and opportunities for scientific networking and dissemination through conference contributions and journal publications.
Funding details
Salary and social benefits according to TVöD-Bund; possible classification in salary group 13 according to TVöD-Bund; 30 days of paid holiday leave and company pension scheme (VBL).
What's required
Completed university studies (Master/Diploma) in Process Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field; solid knowledge of thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer phenomena, process engineering, and process technology; solid knowledge of process control theory (e.g., model predictive control, fuzzy control); willingness to work on numerical and experimental tasks; excellent teamwork and communication skills in an interdisciplinary and international research environment; motivation and self-discipline to carry out research independently; excellent command of English (spoken and written); proficient programming skills in MATLAB, SIMULINK, Python, Dymola/Modelica or other common process simulators.
How to apply
Prepare your application documents, including cover letter, CV, diplomas/transcripts and any other required materials. Submit the application via the online application system on the employer’s website.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.