Renewable Energy, Power Systems, Electrical Engineering

Queen's University Belfast is offering a fully funded PhD scholarship focused on the integration of Grid-Forming Battery Energy Storage Systems (GFM-BESS) into the All-Island Power System. The project addresses the challenge of maintaining grid stability and reliability as the system transitions to high levels of renewable energy penetration, aiming for up to 95% instantaneous renewables by 2030. The research will investigate control topologies, performance evaluation, modelling and simulation, impact assessment on system stability, and the development of performance requirements and validation methodologies for GFM-BESS. The successful candidate will join the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EEECS), working closely with the Transmission System Operator (TSO) and under the supervision of Dr Amy (Xueqin) Liu. The position offers a vibrant research environment, access to specialist research centres, and the opportunity for an industry internship with the TSO. Funding is provided by EirGrid, covering tuition and a generous stipend for both home and international students. Applicants should have a strong academic background in electrical engineering or a related discipline, with knowledge of power systems and an interest in energy storage and inverter technologies. Experience with modelling and simulation tools is desirable. The application deadline is 14 November 2025, with the programme starting in January 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the Queen's University Belfast website or contact Dr Amy Liu.