PhD Position: Dynamic Simulation of Energy Grids on Supercomputing Infrastructures Full-time NEW

PhD Position: Dynamic Simulation of Energy Grids on Supercomputing Infrastructures

The Institute of Climate and Energy Systems – Energy Systems Engineering (ICE-1) develops advanced models and algorithms for simulating and optimizing integrated multi-energy systems, characterized by high spatial and temporal variability and complex interdependencies between material and energy flows. The demands on energy system planning and operation have risen significantly in recent years. The increasing share of renewables, volatile generation patterns, and growing electrification place immense stress on current grid infrastructures. This was illustrated by recent large-scale power outages in Spain, which highlighted the vulnerability of energy systems under extreme conditions and the need for rapid, robust decision-making tools. Addressing these challenges requires real-time or faster-than-real-time simulation capabilities—powered by high-performance computing (HPC). Within our HPC department, we are developing a next-generation simulation platform for large-scale energy grids, fully utilizing modern hardware architectures and advanced parallelization techniques.

Your Job

• Design and implement parallel algorithms for large-scale dynamic systems (e.g., DAE/ODE)
• Further develop and refine simulation methods to improve accuracy, scalability, and stability
• Optimize performance on heterogeneous architectures (e.g., CPU, GPU)
• Apply and validate the developed methods in our internal simulation tools
• Conduct security and resilience studies based on different grid and system scenarios
• Supervise Bachelor's and Master's students
• Represent the institute at national and international forums
• Disseminate results through publications and presentations at scientific conferences

Your Profile

• Master's degree in electrical engineering, or a related field
• Very strong mathematical and algorithmic background
• Programming experience (Python, C++, etc.)
• Familiarity with parallel programming frameworks (e.g. MPI, CUDA)
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR ), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level
• Ability to work as part of a team and in a cooperative manner
• Independent and analytical style of working

Our Benefits for You

• Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe. We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change. We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree
• Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
• Networking & Exchange: You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
• Supervision & Support: We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor Prof. Benigni at RWTH Aachen University
• Work-life balance: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• Annual Leave: You get 30 days of annual leave
• Knowledge & Development: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates (JuDocS)
• Health & well-being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive company health management programme with a wide range of options, including a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga classes and much more. In addition, our company medical service and an experienced social counselling team are available to assist you on site
• Campus experience: Our research campus in the countryside creates ideal conditions for collegial exchange and sporting activities right on site. Our cafeteria offers a wide range of options—you can enjoy a relaxing lunch break with a lake view
• Successful start: It is important to us that you quickly settle into the team and are given structured training for your tasks. We also support you from the very beginning and make your start easier with our Welcome Days and Welcome Guide
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital-forming benefits. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website (pay scale table on page 74 of the PDF download)
• Fixed-term: The position is limited to 3,5 years, where the first half year serves as orientation and probation period
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

Place of Employment: Jülich Start Date: To the next possible date Salary: Pay group 13 (75%) TVöD-Bund Application Deadline: The position will be published until it is successfully filled. Index number: 2026D-0870