Research Fellow in Modelling and Optimisation of Energy Systems with Thermal Energy Storage

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £34,980 to £44,263 with potential progression once in post to £46,974

Closes: 5th May 2024

Fixed Term Contract up to February 2026

Role Summary

We are recruiting a highly motivate researcher to join the teams at the University of Birmingham and projects funded by EPSRC and Horizon Europe (EPSRC Supergen Energy Networks Hub; THUMBS UP). The researcher will join the School of Chemical Engineering, the Birmingham Energy Institute, and Birmingham Centre for Energy Storage.

Deep emission reduction is ubiquitously associated with the need of development and adoption of efficient zero-carbon energy technologies and thermal energy storage, particularly in local multi-energy systems (industrial clusters and energy districts). This is exemplified by national and international strategies toward decarbonization. 

The researcher is expected to contribute to develop and develop of models, based on existing and new simulation environments, for simulation and tecno-economic optimization of multi-energy systems with zero-carbon technologies (Heat pumps, PV, Power-to-X) and energy storage. 

Main Duties

• Develop of models, based on existing and new simulation environments, for simulation of multi-energy systems with other zero-carbon technologies as well as thermal energy storage
• Implement and test the models in real environments
• Perform robust techno-economic analysis and optimization of multi-energy systems 
• Collect, analyse and study the impact of zero-carbon technologies and energy storage on energy demand and energy generation of multi-energy systems (industrial clusters, energy districts, etc) 
• Present research outputs, for example at conferences, workshops, and project review meetings
• Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research

Person Specification

• First degree in the area of research within energy systems, or energy processes & technologies, or energy storage and normally, a higher degree relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications (in relevant field of science or engineering, for example: energy engineering, mechanical/chemical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science or discipline closely related to the main duties)
• A proven track record in energy systems modelling and techno-economic analysis of energy systems and technologies
• A proven track record and demonstrable proficiency in high-level programming for simulations and optimization of energy systems (e.g. Python, Matlab, Modelica, Julia, EES Engineering Equation Solver, or other similar)
• Understanding and experience with techno-economic optimization techniques (e.g. mixed integer linear programming, multi-objective optimization, stochastic optimization, or other similar)
• Track record of academic publications, proven delivery of project outcomes and papers that are recognised within the field
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a diverse, international and cross disciplinary research and development environment

Informal enquiries to Associate Prof Adriano Sciacovelli, a.sciacovelli@bham.ac.uk   

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the above ‘Apply’ button.

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We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

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