About the opportunity
The Thermal Energy Section at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) invites applications for a PhD position within the HeatMinds project, a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network funded by Horizon Europe. The project aims to develop industrial high-temperature heat pumps capable of upgrading low-grade waste heat to approximately 250 °C. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. Ahmad Arabkoohsar and Prof. Adriano Sciacovelli to build tools that facilitate the electrification of industrial heat supply. Responsibilities include developing performance estimation models, co-optimizing heat recovery and flexibility, and validating methods through industrial secondments. The role involves publishing research, presenting at conferences, and participating in network training and summer schools.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time 3-year employment contract
- Competitive salary based on the Marie S. Curie compensation scheme
- Base salary starting at DKK 30,264.08 per month plus a PhD supplement of DKK 1,580.90
- Employer-paid pension contribution of 18.07%
- Eligibility to apply for family allowance
- Participation in an international research network with industrial and academic partners
Who can apply?
- Hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent
- Background in engineering thermodynamics, heat transfer, or energy technologies
- Familiarity with modelling and numerical simulations
- Programming proficiency in Python, Matlab, Modelica, or similar
- Excellent written and spoken English
- MSCA Mobility Rule: Must not have resided or carried out main activities in Denmark for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment
- Must not already hold a doctoral degree
Required documents
- Cover letter motivating the application
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma in English
- Official description of the grading scale
- Copy of master's thesis or other publications (if available)
- Short critical literature review (max 3 pages) on high-temperature heat integration in industrial processes
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-11-24 (23:59 Danish time)
- Anticipated start date: 2026-04-01 or by mutual agreement
How to apply
- Prepare all required documents as a single PDF file
- Access the official application portal via the 'Apply now' link on the job posting
- Complete the online application form and upload the single PDF file
Additional information
- The position is subject to academic approval and enrollment in a DTU PhD program
- Candidates may apply before completing their master's degree but must hold it before starting
- Open-source background checks may be conducted due to the nature of the research
- DTU provides resources for international researchers, including a monthly 'PhD relocation to Denmark' seminar
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for candidates with a strong foundation in thermodynamics and numerical modelling who are eager to apply these skills to industrial decarbonization.
- Well-suited for researchers who enjoy collaborative, international environments and are interested in the practical validation of theoretical models through industrial secondments.
- A great opportunity for those looking to build a career in energy systems, as the role combines academic research with direct exposure to industrial partners within a prestigious MSCA network.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applicants must strictly adhere to the MSCA mobility rule regarding residency in Denmark, which may disqualify those who have lived or worked there recently.
- The application requires a specific 3-page critical literature review, which necessitates significant preparation time before the November deadline.
- While the position is fully funded, candidates should be prepared for the administrative process of relocating to Denmark and obtaining necessary work permits if they are not EU/EEA citizens.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is an excellent stepping stone for early-career researchers aiming to specialize in sustainable energy technologies. By working within a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network, the candidate will gain high-level research experience, international exposure, and a professional network that spans both academia and industry, providing a strong foundation for either a future in academia or a specialized role in the energy sector.
Our take
This is a highly attractive, fully funded PhD opportunity for engineering graduates with a passion for industrial heat electrification. It is particularly suitable for those who meet the specific MSCA mobility requirements and are ready to engage in a rigorous, collaborative research project. Candidates who do not meet the mobility criteria or who lack the required background in thermodynamics and numerical modelling should look for other opportunities.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
