Doctoral student in Energy Sciences with focus on decarbonization of regional rail - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of workplace

The Department of Energy Sciences conducts research on phenomena, mechanisms, components, processes and systems with relevance to the energy sector and the transport sector. The research is based on a combination of modelling, numerical simulations and experimental studies. The department works with a wide range of problems, ranging from industrially relevant research and development to fundamental research in several different areas. Energy Sciences has an extensive network of collaboration partners, both academic and industrial, national and international.

Project description 

Regional rail transport is a crucial part of most countries’ overall rail transport development programs. Many European countries are investing heavily in regional services, driven by the desire of many to live in less congested areas with easy access to large cities. 

Most of the current regional rail systems depend on fossil diesel fuel propulsion, leading to challenges with high climate impact, high emissions and inefficiencies. The aim of the project is therefore to research the future state-of-the-art propulsions systems for regional rail systems that efficiently meet all transport requirements while minimizing climate impact and costs.    

The project is a part of the frame work of EU-Rail involving more than 50 academic and industrial partners, with the overall goal to facilitate a fast transition to an attractive, affordable, and sustainable European rail system.

Work duties

The main task of a doctoral student is to devote himself/herself to his/her doctoral studies, which includes participation in research projects as well as doctoral courses. The duties also include participation in teaching and other departmental work, but not more than 20% of the working time.

The tasks in the research projects involve the investigation and comparison of powertrain technologies such as combustion engines, fuel cells and hybrids, running on sustainable fuels. The first step is to create a model that can be used to determine the performance, climate impact and costs for the different powertrain and energy sources, based on rail and traffic parameters. The second step is to investigate in detail the powertrains that best fulfill performance criteria for the lowest climate impact and lowest total cost of investment, maintenance and operation, based on the model developed in the first step. This second step will also involve some experimental verification.

The results from the project will be used after the project to build a prototype for the regional train of the future.

As the project spans several subject areas, we seek candidates who wish to develop new skills, want to work broadly with systems perspectives, are interested in vehicles and want to drive the transition to sustainable transport. You should also have interest and experience in programming. As a PhD student, you work under great personal responsibility, with access to supervisors with knowledge in relevant subject areas. The project is in collaboration with another PhD student in a team that includes experts from industry. During the PhD program, you are developing skills that are in demand, not only in your research subject but also in project management, scientific methodology and other general competences.

Admission requirements 

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Energy Sciences if the applicant has: 

• at least 90 credits in the subject of the third-cycle programme, of which at least 60 credits from second-cycle courses of relevance to the subject, and 30 credits from a second-cycle degree project of relevance to the subject.
• a Master’s degree of relevance to the field.

Additional requirements

• very good knowledge of English, written and spoken. 

Assessment criteria

Selection for doctoral education is based on assessed ability to assimilate the doctoral programme. The assessment of ability is based primarily on the results of studies at undergraduate and graduate level. The following are taken into account: 

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis work and the subject of the course.
2. Assessed ability to work independently and to formulate and address scientific problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills.
4. Other experience relevant to the doctoral programme, e.g. professional experience. 

Other assessment criteria:

• Experience in modelling and design of vehicle propulsion systems
• Experience with combustion engines and fuel cells
• Experience in life-cycle assessment
• MSc in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Physics 

Consideration will also be given to good cooperation skills, drive and independence, as well as how the applicant's experience and skills are deemed to be sufficient to complete the doctoral programme. 

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. 

Terms of employment 

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

Welcome to apply!