Rao Martand Singh

The GENIUS MSCA Doctoral Network, hosted at the Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology (NTNU), offers two fully funded PhD positions dedicated to advancing the field of energy geostructures. GENIUS is a Marie Sklodowska-Curie doctoral network funded by the European Commission under Horizon Europe, with the mission to address the global challenge of transitioning to renewable-based, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Space heating and cooling represent the largest component of the global energy sector, accounting for about half of final energy consumption—a figure expected to rise with urbanization and economic growth. GENIUS aims to develop innovative technologies to harvest renewable energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, focusing on energy geostructures (EGs), which serve as dual-purpose elements for geothermal heat exchange and structural support in buildings. Despite their potential, EGs have seen limited adoption due to gaps in expertise, technical integration, and scientific understanding. The GENIUS network addresses these challenges by developing advanced analysis and design tools for EGs and enhancing knowledge for their integration with buildings, infrastructure, and other energy resources. The program provides a holistic training environment, preparing doctoral candidates to become leaders in the conceptualization, design, and implementation of energy geostructure applications. The two open positions are: DC7, which focuses on using geothermal energy to prevent road icing and damage in cold climates, and DC8, which aims to develop EGs as retrofitting solutions for existing buildings. Both positions are based at NTNU, with Dr Rao Martand Singh as the main supervisor, and include secondments at partner institutions in Norway and France. The positions are fully funded for three years, covering tuition, a competitive salary (4010 euro/month living allowance, 710 euro/month mobility allowance, and 660 euro/month family allowance if applicable), travel and conference participation, and access to state-of-the-art research facilities. The international and interdisciplinary environment includes opportunities for secondments and personalized career development plans. Applicants must have a Master's degree in Civil or Geological Engineering, excellent English proficiency, and must meet the MSCA mobility rule. The application process is centralized and requires submission of academic documents, a research proposal, CV, English certificate, and references. The selection process is open, transparent, and merit-based, with interviews for shortlisted candidates. The intended start date is by September 2026, though earlier starts may be possible. For more details and to apply, visit the GENIUS website.

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering a 3-year PhD position in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, focusing on the use of geothermal energy for deicing roads under Norwegian ground and climatic conditions. This research is part of the EU-funded MSCA Doctoral Network GENIUS, which aims to train doctoral candidates in the conceptualization, design, and implementation of energy geostructure applications for heating/cooling buildings and thermal energy storage. The Geotechnical Engineering Group at NTNU is renowned for its expertise in quick clays, slope stability, energy geostructures, and advanced numerical methods, supported by a modern laboratory and field equipment. The main goal of the project is to investigate the feasibility of using shallow geothermal energy from energy geostructures (EGs) near roads to prevent icing and mitigate road damage. Research objectives include identifying relevant climatic areas, developing thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) models to assess EG technology efficiency, and creating numerical models to evaluate road damage mitigation. GENIUS addresses the global challenge of transitioning to renewable-based, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, with space heating and cooling representing a significant portion of global energy consumption. The project seeks innovative solutions to reduce dependence on fossil fuels by integrating EGs as dual-purpose elements for geothermal heat exchange and structural support. Doctoral candidates will benefit from international collaboration, career guidance, and participation in a strong professional environment. Applicants must have a master's degree in geotechnical engineering or equivalent, with a strong academic record (B or better on NTNU's scale). Experience in THM behavior of soils, energy geostructures, analytical methods, numerical modeling, and programming (C++, Python) is preferred. Proof of English proficiency and compliance with the EU MSCA mobility rule are required. The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and access to NTNU's employee benefits. The employment period is three years, with no extension possible. Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no, including transcripts, CV, master's thesis, research proposal, and referee contact information. The deadline for applications is December 28, 2025. For further information, contact Professor Rao Martand Singh at [email protected]. NTNU values diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The university is located in Trondheim, a vibrant city known for its cultural scene, excellent welfare system, and opportunities for education and family life.