PhD Studentship in Strategic Power System Planning Imperial College London in United Kingdom

Imperial College London invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship in Strategic Power System Planning, based in the Control and Power Research Group within the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Supervised by Dr Elina Spyrou, this position offers the opportunity to contribute to the transition towards net-zero energy systems by developing innovative power system planning models that address supply chain constraints and stakeholder preferences. The project is highly relevant to the evolving energy landscape, where the generation mix is shifting towards renewables and nuclear, and electricity demand is increasing due to the proliferation of data centers, electric vehicles, and electric heating technologies.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic research group engaged in the Electric Power Innovation for a Carbon-free Society Center (EPICS-UK), collaborating with academic and industry partners in the UK, USA, and Australia. The studentship provides a tax-free stipend of approximately £22,780 per year for three and a half years, covers home-level tuition fees, and includes support for research expenses and travel to collaborators and conferences. Additional opportunities exist to supplement the stipend through tutoring and course assistance. Irish nationals living in Ireland or the UK qualify for home fees; overseas applicants are welcome but must indicate how they will cover the fee difference.

Applicants should hold a first-class Master's degree (or equivalent) in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or economics. The role involves defining research questions, planning and managing the PhD project, conducting independent research, reviewing literature, reporting progress, and disseminating results in high-impact journals and conferences. The successful candidate will be based at Imperial and participate in EPICS Global Centre activities.

To apply, select the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Research Program and the Control and Power Group, and indicate Dr Elina Spyrou as your potential supervisor. Submit a personal statement (max 2 pages) and CV (max 2 pages), focusing on your academic ability, research capability, communication skills, interest in the research topic, and future career plans. No research statement is required at this stage. Early applications are encouraged, and the preferred start date is in 2026. For further details, contact Dr Elina Spyrou at [email protected]. For application queries, email [email protected]. The closing date for applications is 17 March 2026.

Imperial College London is a world-leading institution focused on science, engineering, medicine, and business, consistently ranked among the top 10 universities globally. This studentship offers an excellent opportunity to advance your research career in a cutting-edge field with significant societal impact.