Overview
The School of Engineering at the University of Warwick is looking to appoint three full-time Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Researchers (36.5 hours per week) on fixed-term appointments for 36 months. Starting 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter (preferably no later than 1 February 2027). The posts are funded by the MSCA Doctoral Network project WindConnect, which focuses on grid-forming technologies, AI-driven optimisation, and the integration of wind power and green hydrogen within sector-coupled energy systems.
Informal Queries
For informal queries about the role, please contact Professor Xiaowei Zhao at Xiaowei.zhao@warwick.ac.uk.
About the Role
The School seeks three full-time doctoral researchers: two posts will focus on modelling, stability, and control of grid-forming technologies in wind power systems, and a third post will focus on AI-based energy management for wind farm–hydrogen hybrid systems. There is potential for secondments with industry partners.
About You
Essential: a good honours degree in Control Engineering, Machine Learning, Data Science, Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering. A developing research profile with the ability to publish high-quality research output. Excellent IT skills to write technical research papers and presentations. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with experience working independently and as part of a team. Relevant experience or knowledge in at least one of: control systems, data science, machine learning, renewable energy, and power systems.
Other requirements: you must meet Marie Curie eligibility criteria. At the time of recruitment, you must not have resided or carried out your main activity in the UK for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior, must not hold a doctoral degree, and must be in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of your research career. You will be registered, or willing to register, for a PhD at the University of Warwick.
Programme Details
The WindConnect consortium includes 15 MSCA Doctoral Researchers across 8 institutions in 6 European countries and 12 industrial partners (e.g., Vestas, Ørsted, GE, 50Hertz, NESO, SSE). The programme offers cutting-edge research and training in technical, entrepreneurial, and transferable skills to support Europe’s transition to a sustainable energy system.
Department and University Context
This post is based in the School of Engineering, University of Warwick, within the Intelligent Control and Smart Energy Research Group. The School supports Athena SWAN principles and holds Gold; the University holds Institutional Silver.
How to Apply
Closing deadline: Sunday 7 June 2026 at 23:55 UK Time. To apply, click APPLY below and submit your application by the closing deadline. You will be asked to include a CV and cover letter, including:
* Outline your employment and education history (including your most recent employment).
* Outline your reasons for interest in this position.
* Demonstrate how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the Job Description (PDF attached below).
* Interview Date: To be confirmed
* Start Date: 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter (preferably no later than 1 February 2027)
Applications must be submitted by the closing deadline. Only applications submitted through the Careers Portal will be considered. You may include any career breaks (e.g., parental/caring/long-term sick leave). If you do not evidence the essential criteria, the hiring panel may not shortlist your application. For guidance on formatting a cover letter, see the provided guidance.
What We Offer
* Pension scheme
* 30 days holiday plus university Christmas closure
* Generous parental/adoption leave
* Onsite childcare facilities
* Excellent learning and development opportunities
We offer flexible working arrangements and are a Living Wage employer.
Additional Information
Right to Work in the UK: If you do not yet have the right to work in the UK or require sponsorship, see the linked information for obtaining the right to work in the UK.
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