Doctoral Researcher in AI and Quantum-Inspired Optimization for Sustainable Energy Systems

Aalto University; Espoo; On-site; EUR 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Modern research facilities

Professional development courses

Job summary

Aalto University is seeking a fully funded Doctoral Researcher in AI and Quantum‑Inspired Optimization for Sustainable Energy Systems. The position is housed in the School of Electrical Engineering, focusing on innovative and sustainable energy management.

Located at Otaniemi campus, this role offers an excellent opportunity to work within a supportive research environment, engage in cutting-edge research, and benefit from modern facilities while contributing to significant advancements in energy systems.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, energy systems, or related field.
• Strong background in energy-system modelling and optimisation.
• Proficiency in programming and computational modelling.

Responsibilities

• Develop AI-based models for sustainable multi-energy systems.
• Design optimisation methods for system planning and operation.
• Implement algorithms using Python, MATLAB, or Julia.

Skills

Energy-system modelling

Mathematical optimisation

Machine learning

Reinforcement learning

Computational modelling

Excellent English communication

Education

Master’s degree in electrical engineering, energy systems, or related field

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Julia

Job description

Position Overview

Aalto University is seeking a fully funded Doctoral Researcher in AI and Quantum‑Inspired Optimization for Sustainable Energy Systems. The role is funded by the Research Council of Finland and is part of the project “Smart, Economic, and Sustainable Energy Management of Green Maritime Industry via AI Approaches” (SiGMA). It will be hosted by the Multi‑energy System Planning and Operation Research Group in the School of Electrical Engineering. The primary workplace is Otaniemi campus, Espoo, Finland.

Responsibilities

• Develop mathematical, data‑driven, and AI‑based models for sustainable multi‑energy systems.
• Design optimisation and decision‑making methods for system planning, scheduling, and operation.
• Explore quantum‑inspired optimisation methods for selected energy‑system problems.
• Apply the developed methods to case studies related to ship and port energy systems, green hydrogen, smart grids, or other energy‑intensive infrastructures.
• Implement algorithms and simulation models using Python, MATLAB, Julia, or other suitable tools.
• Analyse simulation and project data, and validate the developed methods through practical case studies.
• Prepare scientific publications for international journals and conferences.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, energy systems, automation, or a related field.
• Strong background in energy‑system modelling, mathematical optimisation, machine learning, reinforcement learning, or data‑driven decision‑making.
• Proficiency in programming and computational modelling; familiarity with Python, MATLAB, Julia, or similar tools.
• Experience with power and energy systems, integrated multi‑energy systems, hydrogen systems, maritime or port energy systems, data‑centre energy management, smart grids, stochastic optimisation, deep learning, safe reinforcement learning, or quantum‑inspired optimisation is an advantage.
• Excellent command of English, good communication skills, and ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
• Motivation to publish high‑quality scientific papers, participate in research projects, and develop into an independent researcher during doctoral studies.
• Additional skills considered assets: energy‑system simulation or optimisation tools, machine learning or reinforcement learning techniques, uncertainty modelling, stochastic programming, robust optimisation, real‑time decision‑making, quantum computing or quantum‑inspired optimisation methods, and scientific writing experience.

Benefits

• Fully funded doctoral researcher position with competitive remuneration.
• Opportunity to work on cutting‑edge research at the intersection of AI, quantum‑inspired methods, and sustainable energy systems.
• Supportive, international, multidisciplinary research environment with guidance from a dedicated supervisor and close collaboration with doctoral researchers, master’s students, and industry partners.
• Access to Aalto University’s modern research facilities, teaching experience, conference participation, professional development courses, and doctoral courses.
• Opportunity for independent research, publication, and collaboration with domestic and international partners.
• Excellent research infrastructure and strong emphasis on equality, inclusion, and well‑being.

Location

Otaniemi campus, Espoo, Finland – a vibrant academic environment with modern research facilities and good public transport connections.

Contact

For more information about the role, please contact Zhengmao Li at [phone] or [e-mail]. For application‑process questions, contact HR advisor [e-mail].

Application

Submit CV and motivation letter via Aalto University’s recruitment site (Apply now). The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.