PhD within hybrid PV power plants

The Department of Solar Power Systems at IFE has a vacant PhD position within hybrid PV power plants. The PhD will be performed within the Research group on Solar Power Plants, which performs research on both design, performance, operation and maintenance and reliability of utility-scale PV power plants. A particular focus is on new technologies and concepts enabling improved lifetime performance, reduced lifetime cost and improved robustness of operation. The core of the research is data analysis, modelling and forecasting. Most projects are performed in collaboration with leading companies and research groups in Norway and abroad.
 
The PhD position will focus on hybrid PV power plants. More specifically, we will investigate hybrid PV/hydro and PV/wind power plants with integrated battery storage. Both the impact of topology and control system design upon the performance of such hybrid power plants will be investigated, both across long (monthly – yearly) and short (milliseconds – minutes) time scales. The research will involve power flow modelling, data analysis and validation using available meteorological, utility grid, and power plant data.
 
We are looking for a candidate with education within physics, electrical engineering, power electronics or similar with relevant experience with PV systems. The ideal candidate should have experience with modelling of PV systems or energy systems including battery storage. Simulation and programming skills will be particularly emphasized. Especially Python and MATLAB/Simulink are highly relevant. We seek a candidate that can work independently, but also participate actively in the group, has strong skills in English, and a positive attitude. The work in the group is often carried out in collaboration with industry and other research groups, hence good communication skills is important, and some travelling must be anticipated. The candidate will work in an active and growing research field at IFE, in a young and social group. 

Work tasks

• Modelling and analysis of hybrid PV/hydro and PV/wind power plants
• Publication of research papers
• Communicate and present research results in various fora

Qualifications

• MSc in physics, electrical engineering or power electronics
• Experience with analysis of data from PV systems and/or battery systems
• Experience with modeling of PV systems and/or battery systems
• Programming skills (python, MATLAB/Simulink)
• Interest in both experimental and theoretical work
• Excellent oral and written English (Fluency in oral and written Norwegian is an advantage)

Personal characteristics

• Systematic and quality conscious
• Self-driven with initiative
• Excellent collaborative and communicative skills
• Analytical

We place great emphasis on your personal suitability for the position. IFE is subject to the National Security Act, and the candidate must be able to pass a background check and must be able to obtain security clearance and authorization.

We offer

• Work in an industrial relevant and research-intensive environment with focus on innovation
• Access to relevant, high-quality data
• An informal, positive working environment with friendly and knowledgeable colleagues
• Salary according to agreement
• Social benefits including pension, life insurance and accident insurance