PhD student to conduct research on ancillary services and system upgrades for large-scale wind generation and electric mobility in Iceland

About this position

We are seeking a PhD student to conduct research on ancillary services and system upgrades for large-scale wind generation and electric mobility in Iceland.

Position Description

The position is funded through the SIF PhD Support Fund (Reykjavík University) for one year (further funding will be applied for) and focuses on power systems engineering in the context of the next phase of Iceland’s energy transition. It builds directly on established modeling work at Reykjavík University and involves close collaboration with Landsnet, Landsvirkjun, and international partners. The candidate will work at the intersection of power systems, energy modeling, optimization, and sustainable transport, with the ambition of producing high-impact research and contributing to Iceland’s climate neutrality goals by 2040.

The PhD project investigates the ancillary services and grid upgrades required to maintain stability in Iceland’s isolated power system as large-scale wind generation is introduced alongside rapid electrification of the light- and heavy-duty vehicle fleet. The research will use and extend existing PyPSA-based models of the Icelandic grid, develop detailed EV charging load profiles, and propose a tailored ancillary services framework.

Research Focus

Iceland’s power system is transitioning from predominantly dispatchable hydro/geothermal generation toward greater shares of variable wind power and new EV charging loads. These changes introduce variability and peak demand challenges that current ancillary services (fast frequency response, voltage control, etc.) were not designed to handle at scale.

The project will characterize current and benchmark Nordic/EU frameworks, develop spatially/temporally resolved EV load profiles, simulate future scenarios with PyPSA (incorporating wind variability and dynamic stability), and propose an optimal ancillary services roadmap suited to Iceland’s isolated grid. Ethical, practical, and policy aspects of implementation will also be addressed in collaboration with system operators.

The exact research direction will be co-designed with the candidate’s background and interests while aligning with project goals and the supervisor’s ongoing work.

Required Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with:

• A Master’s degree in Power Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, or a closely related field.
• Experience or strong interest in power system stability, renewable integration, energy system modeling, and/or electric mobility is a plus.
• Solid programming skills (Python preferred; experience with PyPSA, MATPOWER, or similar modeling tools is a strong advantage).
• Reflective, analytical approach with aspirations to publish in high-impact journals (e.g., Applied Energy , IEEE Transactions on Power Systems ).
• Very good written and spoken English.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.
• Experience with health/real grid data or machine learning is beneficial but not mandatory.

We Offer

• One year funded of 3-year PhD position (SIF Doctoral Student Grant).
• Access to high-performance computing resources and established grid models.
• Strong collaboration with Icelandic TSOs (Landsnet, Landsvirkjun) and international partners (e.g., ICCT).
• Salary according to Reykjavík University scales.
• An international, interdisciplinary research environment with real-world impact on Iceland’s energy transition.
• Opportunity to contribute to national energy planning and publish high-quality research.

Application

Please submit:

• CV.
• Cover letter (clearly stating motivation and relevant background).
• Research plan (max. 3 pages) outlining how you would approach the project.
• Academic transcripts and diplomas.
• Contact details for 2–3 references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Contact for Inquiries Hákon Valur Haraldsson (PI/Supervisor), Department of Engineering, Reykjavík University – hakon@ru.is (or the relevant departmental contact).

About Reykjavik University (RU)

Reykjavík University has around 3.700 students and 300 faculty and employees in addition to numerous adjunct faculty in two schools: Technology and Social Sciences. We offer a welcoming and stimulating environment in which to work and live. The University is centrally located in Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland.

The role of Reykjavik University is to create and disseminate knowledge to enhance the competitiveness and quality of life for individuals and society, guided by good ethics, sustainability, and responsibility. Education and research at RU are based on strong ties with industry and society. We emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, international relations, and entrepreneurship.

About Iceland

Iceland is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with volcanoes, hot springs, lava fields and glaciers offering a dramatic landscape. It consistently ranks as one of the best places in the world to live. It offers a high quality of life and is one of the safest places in the world, with high gender equality and strong healthcare and social support systems.

Reykjavik is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that provides an ideal environment for combining cultural and family activities with an active lifestyle.