PhD in Power System Black Start Services from Utility-Scale Hybrid Power Plants
The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) Wind and Energy Systems department is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on developing black start services from utility-scale hybrid power plants (HPPs). This research is part of the European Doctoral Network (DN) project, WindConnect, funded by the EU’s Horizon 2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme. The project addresses the integration of renewable energy sources—specifically wind, solar, and energy storage—into the power grid, with a focus on providing critical grid services such as black start and system restoration as conventional fossil-fuel generators are phased out. The successful candidate will join the Renewable Plants in Energy Systems (RES) section, a multidisciplinary and international research environment with access to unique infrastructure, including a fully controllable MW-scale hybrid power plant. The PhD project involves modeling and developing advanced operational strategies for HPPs to reliably provide black start services. This includes creating electromagnetic transient (EMT), root mean square (RMS), and statistical models to analyze control, protection, and system stability during black start events. The research will model a utility-scale HPP that combines offshore wind, onshore solar, and energy storage systems, and will develop comprehensive strategies for control coordination, technology interaction, and controller stability. The project will also quantify the added value of black start services from HPPs compared to single-technology renewable plants, emphasizing improved availability and reliability. As part of the WindConnect consortium, the PhD student will collaborate with leading universities and industry partners across Europe, participate in external research stays (6–9 months), and benefit from technical, entrepreneurial, and soft-skill training. The candidate will also contribute to the deliverables of IEA Wind Task 50 on Hybrid Power Plants, assist in co-supervising MSc theses, and provide limited teaching assistance at DTU. Applicants must have a MSc degree in power system engineering, electrical engineering, control systems, or a closely related field, with strong skills in converter control, power system dynamics, and control theory. Experience with modeling and simulation tools (PSCAD, MATLAB/Simulink, DIgSILENT PowerFactory), familiarity with EMT and RMS modeling, and knowledge of converter-based generation systems and grid services are required. Candidates must not already hold a doctoral degree, have less than four years of full-time research experience post-degree, and must not have resided or worked in Denmark for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment. Proficiency in English and strong analytical and communication skills are essential. Admission to the DTU PhD program requires a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent. The position is full-time for 36 months, with salary and allowances based on the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations’ agreement. The start date is 1 April 2026 or as agreed. DTU offers a vibrant, international research environment, with a strong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Applications must be submitted online by 7 December 2025, including a cover letter, CV, transcripts, diplomas, and a 1-page research statement, all in English. For further information, contact Associate Professors Kaushik Das, Anca D. Hansen, or Head of Section Gregor Giebel.
