PhD Candidate in AI-Enabled Uncertainty Analysis for High-Fidelity Internet-of-Energy Digital Twins
The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD position in AI-Enabled Uncertainty Analysis for High-Fidelity Internet-of-Energy (IoE) Digital Twins, based at the Department of Ocean Operations and Civil Engineering in Ålesund, Norway. This position is part of the SAILING project, which brings together leading research groups and industrial partners to develop intelligent, automated energy management systems powered by secure AI and advanced digital twin technologies.
The research will focus on developing advanced AI-enabled methods for uncertainty analysis and quantification to support high-fidelity IoE digital twins. The project addresses the challenges posed by the integration of renewable energy sources, distributed devices, and digital technologies in modern power systems. The successful candidate will investigate approaches for identifying, modelling, and integrating uncertainty factors from IoE devices and system dynamics, combining data-driven learning with knowledge-based modelling techniques. Applications include renewable energy systems (such as wind turbines), smart grids, and electrified platforms like electric ships or microgrids.
Expected outcomes include novel methods for device-level uncertainty analysis, system-level uncertainty knowledge representation, and enhanced robustness and reliability of IoE digital twins. The position offers the opportunity to collaborate with other PhD candidates and project partners, participate in international conferences and research stays, and contribute to academic publications and popular science dissemination.
Eligibility:
Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree in computer science, automation-related engineering, or equivalent, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at the master's level. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade of B or better on NTNU's grading scale. Candidates with a weaker grade background may be considered if they can demonstrate particular suitability for PhD education. Experience in artificial intelligence, data analytics, uncertainty analysis, probabilistic modelling, statistical learning, machine learning, data-driven modelling, and knowledge of energy systems, smart grids, or cyber-physical systems is preferred. Good teamwork, communication, and analytical skills are expected.
Funding:
The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund. The employment period is 3 years, and the position includes membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund and free basic Norwegian language training (A2).
Application:
Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no and include transcripts, diplomas, CV, project outline, and references. Only applications received by the deadline will be considered. If invited to interview, candidates must bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. The application deadline is 30 April 2026.
For further information, contact Professor Houxiang Zhang ([email protected]). For recruitment process questions, contact PhD Coordinator Lara Bromann ([email protected]).
NTNU is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, functional ability, or cultural background. Ålesund offers a vibrant cultural life, excellent facilities, and a dynamic business environment, making it an ideal location for both career and family life.