Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Operational Optimisation of EV Charging Stations for Maximum Energy Efficiency University of Galway in Ireland

Applications are invited for a full-time, fully funded PhD scholarship at the University of Galway in Ireland, affiliated with the Power Electronics Research Centre (PERC) in the School of Engineering and the RINN Energy Centre.

This project sits within the Smart Connected Cities and Communities theme and focuses on the operational optimisation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for maximum energy efficiency. The research aims to understand how aggregated EVs and charging stations can participate in flexible grid services through intelligent load scheduling, on-site battery storage, and coordinated use of renewable energy sources.

Research tasks include profiling EV charging demand, characterising demand response potential, developing an electrical energy system model for charging stations, and accounting for efficiency and practical limitations across power conversion stages. The project will evaluate public and commercial fleet charging stations, explore services such as demand response and peak shaving, and develop optimisation methods to improve energy efficiency while maintaining or improving economic performance. A small-scale prototype system will also be designed, built, and tested to validate the proposed methods, with results scaled to a national context.

The scholarship is funded by Research Ireland under the RINN Energy Centre and is linked to Horizon Europe-aligned goals around smart, secure, and resilient energy systems, decarbonising cities, and supporting net-zero ambitions. Collaboration is expected with theme PIs at Technological University Dublin and University College Dublin, as well as the wider RINN consortium.

Funding includes a €25,000 per year tax-exempt stipend, EU tuition fees covered for up to four years, and additional support for research activities such as conferences and training. Non-EU applicants may apply for an international fee waiver.

Eligible applicants should have a bachelor's or master's degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering or a closely related field, with experience in energy systems modelling, renewable energy, batteries, power electronics, techno-economic analysis, demonstrator development, and technical writing. Strong analytical, communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills are emphasized.

The application deadline is 24 August 2026 at 17:00 Irish time. Applicants must email a single PDF CV and cover letter to Prof. Maeve Duffy at [email protected], using the specified subject line.