The doctoral research will develop reliability-aware control and planning methods to enhance asset lifetime, strengthen mini-grid resilience, and reduce operational and actuarial risks.

The selected doctoral scholar will be supervised at the TUM Chair of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems, led by Prof. Dr. Thomas Hamacher, and co-supervised by an academic from an ENERGISE partner university.

The ENERGISE doctoral scholarship includes:

• a monthly stipend of EUR 1,300
• EUR 2,000 for research mobility and stays between South Africa and Germany
• insurance support

ENERGISE doctoral scholars are expected to contribute actively to the activities of the Center, engage in academic exchange with partner universities, and present and publish their research at leading international conferences and in academic journals.

Who can apply?

Applicants should have:

• a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or a related field
• an excellent academic track record
• extracurricular skills, social engagement, and strong motivation
• South African citizenship or permanent residency in South Africa

Qualified women and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply.

Selection process

Based on the applications, selected candidates may be invited to complete a task assignment in microgrid controls and optimization. Final candidates will be invited to an online interview with Prof. Dr. Thomas Hamacher and his team.

The final decision will be made by the Selection Commission of the TUM ENERGISE Center in line with DAAD criteria.

How to apply

Applicants should submit:

• a CV
• a strong motivation letter highlighting their fit with the TUM ENERGISE Center
• certificates
• transcript of records

Applications must be submitted through the online application form by 31 August 2026: https://forms.gle/fRwxEQ1eSETBwXQB6

For questions regarding the scholarship, please contact Dr. Ing. Prashant Pant at prashant.pant@tum.de.