Raoof Gholami

The University of Stavanger is offering a PhD Fellowship in Sustainable Geothermal Energy Solutions and Heat Storage Technologies, based at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Energy and Petroleum Engineering. This three-year, full-time position provides an excellent opportunity for academic development and research training, leading to a doctoral degree in Energy Engineering and Geoscience. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team and participate in the ongoing EU-project GeoSUSTAIN, working within the university’s Energy Central—a state-of-the-art 'living lab' for energy research. The PhD project focuses on investigating heat storage options integrated with shallow and semi-deep geothermal installations. The research will leverage system integration and optimized operation of the Living Lab geothermal energy system, utilizing both physics-based and data-driven modeling approaches for real-time optimization and control. The Energy Central infrastructure includes 120 geothermal wells (10 dedicated to research), large-scale commercial heat pumps, a supercritical CO₂ heat pump, gas and electric boilers, hot water accumulators, and dry coolers, all equipped with advanced measurement systems. This setup enables the development and validation of digital twin technologies for techno-economic optimization of energy systems, with a key goal of incorporating forecasting and market data to enhance system operation. Applicants should hold a five-year master’s degree in mechanical engineering, sustainable energy engineering, or a closely related field, with strong academic performance (minimum B grade on the Norwegian scale). Required skills include a solid foundation in energy technology, proficiency in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), data-driven modeling, and documented experience in modeling, coding, and programming. Additional assets include experience with real-world energy projects, expertise in AI for energy system optimization, forecasting tools, market data analysis, and techno-economic models. Candidates must demonstrate motivation, research potential, ability to work independently and collaboratively, creativity, structured work habits, and proficiency in English (with specific test requirements for international applicants). The position offers a competitive salary (NOK 550,800 gross per year), automatic membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, favorable insurance and retirement benefits, relocation support, discounted public transport, and guaranteed nursery places. The university provides a supportive and inclusive work environment, free Norwegian language courses, and access to mental health and well-being services. Diversity is valued, and applications are encouraged from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, career gaps, or immigrant status. To apply, candidates must submit their application via the Jobbnorge portal, including an application letter, CV, references, certificates/diplomas, Diploma Supplement, conversion scale (if applicable), documentation of English proficiency, and relevant publications. All documentation should be in English or a Scandinavian language and compressed if exceeding 100 MB. The application deadline is February 3, 2026. For further information, contact Professor Mohsen Assadi ([email protected]) or Professor Raoof Gholami ([email protected]). More details and application instructions are available at Jobbnorge and Euraxess .