Luisa F. Cabeza

The University of Lleida invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in grid-scale energy storage, as part of the RESTORATIVE project under the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. The research will focus on developing a novel thermal energy storage (TES) tank using phase change materials (PCM) for thermomechanical grid-scale energy storage and power-to-X applications. The project is part of a large European doctoral network, with 17 PhD students across 7 universities and 4 companies, and offers extensive collaboration and training opportunities. The successful candidate will join the GREiA research group at University of Lleida, renowned for its expertise in TES technologies, energy efficiency, artificial intelligence applied to control strategies, and sustainable engineering processes. The PhD project will involve advanced modeling (using COMSOL or similar software), material development and experimental characterization, and integration studies of TES tanks within the electrical grid (using TRNSYS or similar tools). The research will benefit from synergies with ongoing projects and activities within the department. Supervision will be provided by Professor Luisa F. Cabeza (main supervisor), Dr. Emiliano Borri (co-supervisor, University of Lleida), and Dr. Cristian Prieto (co-supervisor, University of Seville). The position includes two secondments: a six-month academic stay at University of Bologna, Italy, and a three-month industrial placement at Build to Zero in Sevilla, Spain. Additional training will be provided through summer/winter schools and workshops with the doctoral network. Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in industrial engineering, thermal sciences, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Experience in energy systems modeling (thermal focus), CFD, Python programming, material characterization, and experimental testing is advantageous. Due to Marie Skłodowska-Curie mobility rules, candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Spain for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment. The PhD student will also participate in outreach activities and fulfill University of Lleida doctoral requirements. The position is fully funded, with a minimum salary of €54,522.72 per year (pre-tax and social security), for a three-year contract. The appointment is based on the collective bargaining agreement for technical and engineering office staff, with terms agreed upon with the relevant union. The workplace is University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain. To apply, submit your complete application online by 27 May 2026. Applications must include a motivation letter, CV (with mobility history and references), grade transcripts, and diplomas, all in English as a single PDF file. Late applications will not be considered. For further information, contact Prof. Luisa F. Cabeza at [email protected]. More details about the University of Lleida and GREiA research group can be found at https://www.udl.cat/ca/ and https://greia.udl.cat/ . This opportunity is open to candidates of all backgrounds. The RESTORATIVE project offers a unique environment for academic excellence, international collaboration, and impactful research in the field of energy storage and the green transition.