Inegrating batteries into traction grids is finding new applications with the integration of RES and third-party users. Still, there are many power electronics and EMS challenges to solve.
While the concept of reusing electric vehicle batteries for grid support is gaining traction, practical implementation remains limited by a range of unresolved challenges. Existing DC charging systems are not designed for the heterogeneous nature of second-life batteries, which differ in state of health, capacity, and interface standards. Furthermore, spatial constraints in dense urban environments, coupled with regulatory uncertainties surrounding battery transport, safety, and installation, complicate deployment. Current assessment frameworks insufficiently capture the long-term reliability, environmental trade-offs, and techno-economic feasibility of second-life battery systems in grid applications. As a result, there is a pressing need for rigorous research to develop integration strategies, modeling approaches, and regulatory frameworks that enable reliable and scalable use of second-life batteries in high-power DC charging networks.
This PhD is funded by Holland High Tech and ABB Delft.
The research in the Department of Electrical Sustainable Energy is inspired by the technical, scientific, and societal challenges originating from the transition towards a more sustainable society and focuses on four areas:
- DC Systems, Energy Conversion and Storage (DCE&S)
- Photovoltaic Materials and Devices (PVMD)
- Intelligent Electrical Power Grids (IEPG)
- High Voltage Technologies (HVT)
The department owns a large ESP Laboratory assembling High Voltage testing, DC Grids testing environment, and large RTDS that is actively used for real-time simulation of future electrical power systems, AC and DC protection and wide-area monitoring and protection. The DC Systems, Energy Conversion and Storage (DCE&S) group is responsible for research and education in the fields of DC systems, high voltage technology, energy storage, electronic power conversion (power electronics), and electromechanics. DC systems is a multidisciplinary field of research, exploring the integration of renewable energy sources and energy storage (electric vehicles) in DC networks and systems and future DC transmission grids. The group is currently active in applications such as Direct Current distribution and transmission grids and microgrids, electrification of mobility (charging of electric vehicles), and renewable generation of electrical energy (such as wind and solar energy). Would you like to know more about the ESE department and the DCE&S group? Please take a look at the webpage www.tudelft.nl/ewi/ese.
Who are we looking for?
- You have a master's degree in Electrical Engineering discipline from a well-established university.
- An experience with the modeling of one or more among: Batteries, power flows in DC grids, and EV charging demand.
- A solid background in power electronics and the development of experimental setups.
- Excellent English and programming skills are a requirement. Knowledge of Dutch is an advantage.
- A combination of excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference. For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future. At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Zian Qin, via Z.Qin-2@tudelft.nl. For information about the selection procedure, please contact Sharmila Rattansingh, management assistant email: s.rattansingh@tudelft.nl.
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 22 July 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- CV
- Motivational letter that explains your personal motivation in pursuing a PhD in general, and this topic in specific, and why you would be an excellent fit to the job requirements. Please do not use ChatGPT or other tools for providing a standard/non-personalized letter
- A list of grades of your qualifying degrees (BSc, MSc)
You can address your application to Dr. Zian Qin. Please note that applications will be assessed on a rolling basis and suitable candidates will be invited for interview, so it is recommended not to wait until the deadline with your application.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
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