PhD position on flexible operation of distribution systems with AI

About the role

The Delft University of Technology invites applications for a four‑year doctoral appointment focused on exploiting the flexibility of distributed energy resources (DERs) and smart buildings in low‑voltage distribution systems. The research addresses limited data availability and operational uncertainty, using artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve system observability and coordinated operation.

Key responsibilities

• Investigate AI/ML approaches to support coordinated operation of DERs and smart buildings under data constraints.
• Develop surrogate models that increase observability of distribution networks.
• Collaborate with industrial partners and interdisciplinary researchers in mathematics and operations research.
• Contribute to open‑science initiatives, including publishing research findings and sharing source code and data.
• Assist in teaching activities such as student supervision and laboratory sessions.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics or a related field.
• Strong interest in power systems, renewable energy integration, and data‑driven methods.
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Required skills

• Artificial Intelligence
• Machine Learning

What we offer

• Four‑year doctoral appointment with fixed‑term contract.
• Joint supervision by Dr. Pedro P. Vergara and Prof. Peter Palensky.
• Membership in the Intelligent Electrical Power Grids section of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science.
• Opportunities for collaboration with industrial partners and researchers from other disciplines.
• Support for open science, including publications, source‑code, and data sharing.
• Teaching responsibilities that provide valuable academic experience.