Dynamic Modelling and Experimental Validation of Hybrid Power-to-X Systems

Technical Sciences - Institut for Electro- og Comp; Aarhus kommune; On-site; DKK 45,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

Aarhus University in Denmark invites applications for a PhD fellowship in the Electrical and Computer Engineering programme. The project develops dynamic models and conducts experimental validation of hybrid Power-to-X systems using the SOEC-eREACT-MeOH chain at AU facilities.

You will build multi-rate models, perform experiments, and contribute to grid interactions and control studies with emphasis on power electronics and energy systems.

Qualifications

• Relevant master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or related field.
• Strong background in dynamic modelling and simulation of electrical/energy systems.
• Proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink and data analysis of experimental data.
• Experience with system identification/parameter estimation and power electronics is an advantage.
• Ability to work independently and communicate in English.

Responsibilities

• Develop dynamic models for hybrid PtX systems and validate experimentally.
• Conduct experiments at AU Power-to-X pilot facilities and analyze results.
• Collaborate across electrical engineering, control and energy research groups.

Skills

Dynamic modelling

Data analysis

MATLAB/Simulink

Experimentation

English proficiency

Education

Master's degree (120 ECTS)

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

HIL simulation

Job description

Dynamic Modelling and Experimental Validation of Hybrid Power-to-X Systems

Applicants are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Technical Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Electrical and Computer Engineering programme. The position is available from 01 January 2027 or later.

Title: Dynamic Modelling and Experimental Validation of Hybrid Power-to-X Systems

Research area and project description The PhD project will develop and experimentally validate dynamic models of hybrid Power-to-X (PtX) systems, focusing on the interaction of heterogeneous electrical and process technologies in integrated fuel-production plants. The work is embedded in the PowerFactor project and will use the SOEC-eREACT-MeOH chain at AU's Power-to-X pilot facilities as the primary case study. The research will combine physics-based modelling, system identification, parameter estimation and data-driven/model-reduction techniques to establish component- and system-level models across multiple time scales. Particular attention will be given to the electrical behaviour of electrolysis, electrified synthesis processes, auxiliary loads, power-electronic interfaces and their coupling with the grid. Models will be developed at appropriate levels of fidelity for dynamic studies while retaining the physical interpretability needed for scaling and transfer to future industrial PtX plants. Experimental campaigns and recorded plant data will be used for systematic model calibration and validation under different operating points, load transitions and selected grid/power-quality disturbances. Where relevant, real-time and hardware-in-the-loop methods will complement plant measurements. The validated models will be used to analyse plant-grid interactions, dynamic performance, flexibility and operating envelopes, and will provide a foundation for later control and grid-compliance studies. Expected outcomes include validated multi-rate models, documented validation methodologies and new knowledge on how hybrid PtX subsystems interact dynamically at plant level.

Qualifications and specific competences Applicants must have a relevant master's degree (120 ECTS) in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, Power Electronics, Control Engineering, Energy Engineering, or a closely related field, or equivalent, by enrolment. A strong background in dynamic modelling and simulation of electrical or energy systems is expected. Experience with MATLAB/Simulink or comparable tools, programming, and analysis of experimental data is desirable. Experience with system identification/parameter estimation, power-system dynamics, power electronics, power quality, real-time/HIL simulation, experimental measurements, or Power-to-X/electrolysis is an advantage. Applicants should be able to work independently and collaboratively and communicate clearly in English.

Place of employment and place of work The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aarhus University, Finlandsgade 22, 8200 Aarhus N., Denmark. Experimental work will also be carried out at the AU Power-to-X pilot facilities, Aarhus University campus Viborg, Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.

Contacts: Applicants seeking further information regarding the PhD position are invited to contact:

• Professor Björn Andresen, e-mail: [e-mail] (main supervisor)
• Assistant Professor Arman Fathollahi, e-mail: [e-mail] (co-supervisor)

For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see our application guide . If answers cannot be found there, please contact:

• [e-mail]

Application deadline is 15 October 2026 23:59 CEST. Preferred starting date is 01 January 2027.

Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with applicable collective agreement.

Aarhus University's ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background.

Adresse Finlandsgade 22
8200 Aarhus N
Danmark