Technical University of Munich
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Research Associate in Geothermal High-Temperature Heat Pumps and ORC Systems (PhD opportunity) Technical University of Munich in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Full-time position classified as TV-L E13 and limited under WissZeitVG. The role is intended for scientific qualification with the goal of a doctorate; no stipend amount is stated.
Deadline
Nov 6, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Technical University of Munich
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About this position
Technical University of Munich is advertising a Research Associate (m/f/d, full-time) in the field of geothermal high-temperature heat pumps, with a strong focus on experimental development, demonstration plants, and ORC systems (Organic Rankine Cycle).
The project centers on planning, implementing, and scientifically monitoring two geothermal district cooling systems over several years in real-world operation. A key innovation is a reversible high-temperature heat pump that can also operate as an ORC: in winter it upgrades geothermal heat for heating applications, and at low heat demand it can generate electricity to support a largely self-sufficient cooling plant.
The successful candidate will join a dedicated research team at the Chair of Energy Systems and work with an experimental facility reaching flow temperatures up to 120 °C. Tasks include experimental characterization in heat pump and ORC modes, expansion of the setup (for example, adding a rectification column), investigation of zeotropic mixtures and working-fluid/oil management, development and validation of simulation models, and transfer of results to modules in the ~200 kWel / ~1 MWth range. The role also includes support for manufacturer selection, acceptance tests, system integration, commissioning, long-term operation, publications, conference presentations, and teaching/support duties.
Eligibility highlights: an above-average degree in mechanical engineering, energy engineering, process engineering, or a related field; strong thermodynamics knowledge; desirable experience in heat pump/refrigeration technology, working fluids, or turbomachinery; strong experimental interest; structured and independent working style; teamwork and communication skills; and German at C1 level due to coordination with local stakeholders.
Funding/employment: full-time TV-L E13 position, limited under WissZeitVG, and explicitly intended for scientific qualification toward a doctorate.
Application: submit cover letter, CV, certificates, and optionally recommendation letters by email as a PDF to [email protected] with the subject “Bewerbung rev. HTWP”. The deadline is 2026-11-06.
Funding details
Full-time position classified as TV-L E13 and limited under WissZeitVG. The role is intended for scientific qualification with the goal of a doctorate; no stipend amount is stated.
What's required
An above-average completed university degree in mechanical engineering, energy engineering, process engineering, or a similar field is required. Applicants should have solid knowledge of thermodynamics and thermodynamic cycles; experience in heat pump or refrigeration technology, working fluids, or turbomachinery is desirable. The role requires enjoyment of experimental work, a structured and independent problem-solving approach, strong responsibility and care, teamwork and communication skills, and German language skills at least at C1 level due to coordination with local stakeholders.
How to apply
Prepare a complete application with cover letter, CV, certificates, and optionally recommendation letters. Send the documents as a PDF by email, preferably combined into one file, to [email protected] with the subject line “Bewerbung rev. HTWP”.
More information can be found here
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