Energy Communities & Local Electricity Markets
We are looking for a highly motivated researcher to join an exciting research project on the design, modelling, and evaluation of participation in local electricity and flexibility markets for energy communities based on Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). The successful candidate will analyse the regulatory framework, develop market models integrating AI-driven autonomous strategies, and validate them through high-performance simulations and hardware-in-the-loop emulations. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of energy systems, artificial intelligence, and market design, contributing to the future of smart energy communities.
Candidates should have, at least, a master's degree of relevant disciplines. The work could easily lead to a Ph.D. degree.
Annual Salary: € 31.472,55
Project duration: Until 31st December 2028
The work is funded by "Comunidad de Madrid" with the project PREDFLEX-CM (ref. TEC-2024/ECO-287) through the R&D Activity Programme "Tecnologías 2024". Order 5696/2024, 10 of December 2024, from the Secretary of Education, Science and Universities.
Requirements
The ideal candidate should have a strong background in energy systems, electrical engineering, or related fields, with knowledge in optimisation and numerical techniques applied to energy management. A solid understanding of decentralised energy resources, Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), and market mechanisms is highly desirable. Experience with modelling and simulation tools such as Python (GurobiPy, PandaPower) is a preferred requirement. Knowledge of the Spanish and European regulatory framework for the electricity sector is also preferred. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work independently within a multidisciplinary research team are essential.
What do we offer?
Full-time annual contract as Predoctoral Researcher for the development of the projects. In addition, training activities may be carried out. This modality allows the predoctoral researcher to establish a close professional relationship with the companies with which he/she collaborates. There will be the possibility of joining a doctoral program after the first two years or earlier if the performance is adequate. In this case, the predoctoral researcher is hired every year for a maximum total period of six years. The gross salary for the first year is €31.472,55 for the year 2025. In addition, the IIT covers 90% of the fees for the training activities and there will be access to all the services offered by the University (Sports, Cultural Activities, Library, etc.).
Documents
Curriculum vitae, academic transcript, a letter of presentation and motivation and two letters of recommendation.