Modelling, Simulation and Optimisation of integrated Energy Systems

A fully funded PhD opportunity is now open to students worldwide who aim to advance the research in integrated energy systems. With the global goal of achieving net zero emissions, energy systems are transforming with a rising share of renewable energy generation and the spreading deployment of low-carbon energy technologies across various vectors. These advancements, such as the deployment of geothermal sites and heat pumps, offer potential flexibility resources but also pose potential stresses on power systems. The effective scale-up of sustainable energy technologies requires coordinated development with the evolving energy system to unlock their full potential and establish economically viable development pathways. This PhD position aims to conduct holistic modelling and analysis of integrated energy systems to reach optimal system performance while incorporating various sustainable energy infrastructures.<br /> <br /> Potential research topics include:<br /> 1.    Modelling, simulation, and optimisation of integrated energy systems and energy hubs combining multiple vectors, such as electricity, heating, cooling, gas, hydrogen, and transportation. <br /> 2.    Design and operation of local integrated heat and electricity networks considering the coordinated roll-out of heat pumps and low-carbon building clusters; modelling, control, and optimisation of building energy systems.<br /> 3.    Energy management and decarbonisation of regional energy systems via electrification and sectoral coupling (particularly in hard-to-abate sectors, i.e. heating and industry).<br /> 4.    System integration and optimal use of renewable energy generation and other energy technologies as flexibility assets in the power system. <br /> 5.    AI applications for integrated energy system modelling and analysis. <br /> <br /> Essential Skills:<br /> 1.    Research-driven and self-motivated, with a strong passion for energy system related studies.<br /> 2.    Proficiency in English with strong communication and scientific writing skills.<br /> 3.    Competency in computer programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB).<br /> 4.    Energy system modelling expertise with experience in academic research <br /> Preferred Skills:<br /> 1.    Educational background in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Renewable Energy Engineering, Operations Research, or other relevant disciplines.<br /> 2.    Demonstrated capability for academic writing and a record of peer-reviewed publications.<br /> 3.    Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.<br /> 4.    Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills for complex energy challenges.<br />

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Electronic & Electrical Engineering FT, </strong></em>in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Modelling, Simulation and Optimisation of integrated Energy Systems</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/faculty-engineering-physical-sciences/staff/15434/dr-tong-zhang">Dr Tong Zhang</a> as your proposed supervisor and in the finance section, the funding source you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>School of</strong></em> <em><strong>Electronic & Electrical Engineering Studentship 2026/27 (February 2026)</strong></em>.</p> <p>Applications will be considered after the closing date.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 27 February 2026:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including the grading scheme</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>A highly competitive School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering Studentship providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£20,780 in academic session 2025/26) for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided.<br /> <br /> This opportunity is open to all applicants. All candidates will be placed into the School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p>You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£340 in Session 2025/26), but the scholarship maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months in the final year of award.</p> <p>Please note that there is only 1 funded place available.  If you are successful in securing an academic offer, this does not constitute an offer of funding.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For more information about this PhD position, please contact Dr Tong Zhang by email to <a href="mailto:T.zhang1@leeds.ac.uk">T.zhang1@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>