Vladimir Oleshchuk

The University of Agder (UiA) is offering a fully funded PhD Research Fellow position in cybersecurity for Electrical Smart Grid, affiliated with the Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at the Faculty of Engineering and Science. The position is based at Campus Grimstad, Norway, and is available for a fixed term of three years, with a start date as soon as possible or by agreement. This research opportunity focuses on the protection and resilience of energy infrastructure, a critical sector increasingly exposed to cyber threats due to ongoing digitalization. The successful candidate will investigate information security and operational safety in the energy sector, aiming to develop robust cyber-defense solutions for electrical grid infrastructure. Research activities will include the use of advanced monitoring and detection systems, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testbeds, and the integration of cloud technology, IoT, and AI to enhance reliability and security. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in cybersecurity engineering, computer and control systems engineering, ICT, computer science, or a closely related field. Required skills include ICT systems’ security and strong programming abilities in Python, MATLAB, and/or C/C++. Admission to the PhD programme requires a relevant master’s degree from a Norwegian university or equivalent, with minimum grade requirements (C or higher for bachelor’s, B or higher for master’s and dissertation). English proficiency is mandatory, with TOEFL (minimum 600 PBT or 92 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 6.5) scores required for non-exempt international candidates. Desired qualifications include experience with operational technology (e.g., SCADA systems), electric power engineering, cybersecurity incident management, machine learning/AI methods, and simulation/modeling. The position also involves a 20% part-time role with a regional electricity grid operator, subject to the National Security Act, requiring candidates to pass a background check and obtain security clearance. Personal qualities such as teamwork, communication skills, inventiveness, and a proactive approach are highly valued. The successful candidate will join an active research community, benefit from professional development opportunities, international collaborations, modern facilities, and a comprehensive welfare package. Training to publish in top journals and conferences is provided, along with membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, with a compulsory pension contribution deducted according to statutory provisions. UiA encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and is committed to diversity and inclusion. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted electronically via the provided link, including a motivation letter, transcripts, CV, master thesis, up to five representative publications, a description of research interests, and English proficiency test results if required. All documentation should be in English or a Scandinavian language. The application deadline is December 15, 2025. For further information, contact Professor Vladimir Oleshchuk ([email protected]), Dr. Nadia Noori ([email protected]), or Head of Department Folke Haugland ([email protected]). For application process queries, contact HR Advisor Heidi Kristensen ([email protected]). Apply now to join UiA’s dynamic research environment and contribute to the future of secure energy systems.