Join a Leading Research Group

Work on cutting-edge projects with real-world impact, collaborate with leading industry partners, access state-of-the-art facilities, and build a strong publication record in top-tier journals. Our group offers competitive funding, international collaboration opportunities, and a supportive environment with proven supervision track record.

Why Join Our Research Group?

  • Work on cutting-edge projects with tangible real-world impact in renewable energy and mining sectors
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships with major organizations (BHP, IGO, Watts Denmark)
  • Opportunities for industry placements and international collaboration (Denmark, USA)
  • Strong publication record in top-tier journals (IEEE Transactions, Nature, Renewable Energy Reviews)
  • Pathway to commercialization through spin-offs like OptiGrid
  • Supportive environment with proven supervision track record (10+ PhD graduates)
  • Competitive funding packages with top-up scholarships and research allowances

Available Research Areas

We welcome applications from motivated PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers in the following areas:

  • Battery energy storage systems: optimal sizing, operation, and aggregation for grid applications
  • Electric vehicle integration: charging optimization, V2G, and fleet management
  • Mining electrification: battery-electric vehicles and hybrid renewable systems for mining operations
  • Demand response and flexibility aggregation: VPP operation and prosumer coordination
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning for power systems forecasting and optimization
  • Electricity market participation: bidding strategies and revenue optimization
  • Community batteries and local energy markets: sizing, operation, and business models
  • Smart grid technologies: DER integration, voltage control, and grid stability

What We Offer

  • Competitive Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships
  • Top-up scholarships from industry partners (up to $10K p.a. additional funding)
  • Research allowances for conferences, equipment, and travel ($5K+ p.a.)
  • Industry-PhD programs with additional benefits and guaranteed industry placements
  • International placement opportunities (e.g., 6-month placements in Denmark with flights and stipend)
  • Access to Adelaide Power System Summer School intensive training
  • Collaborative research environment with regular group meetings and workshops
  • Opportunities to co-author papers with international collaborators

Application Requirements

PhD Applicants

Strong academic background in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or related fields. First-class honours or equivalent (minimum 75% average). Excellent English communication skills (IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent).

Postdoc Applicants

PhD degree in relevant field with strong publication record. Demonstrated research excellence in power systems, renewable energy, or related areas. Independent research capabilities.

Technical Skills

Programming skills in MATLAB, Python, or similar. Knowledge of optimization techniques and/or machine learning preferred. Experience with power system simulation tools (optional but valued).

Personal Qualities

Self-motivated with strong work ethic. Good teamwork and communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively. Enthusiasm for renewable energy and sustainability.

Selection Criteria

  • Academic performance: typically First‑Class Honours or GPA ≥ 75% (or equivalent)
  • Evidence of research potential: publications, thesis quality, or research projects
  • Technical skills: MATLAB/Python; optimization and/or ML preferred
  • Communication: clear technical writing and presentation skills
  • Fit and motivation: interests aligned with batteries, smart grids, or mining electrification

How to Apply

To express your interest, please email the following documents to :

  • Current CV including academic transcripts and publications (if any)
  • Cover letter explaining your research interests and why you want to join our group (1-2 pages)
  • Academic transcripts (certified copies)
  • English proficiency test results (if applicable)
  • Names and contact details of two academic referees
  • Brief research proposal or areas of interest (1 page)

Important Note

Scholarships are competitive. Early application is strongly encouraged. Typical intake periods are February and July each year. International students should allow sufficient time for visa processing (3-6 months).

Ready to Apply?

If you're interested in pursuing a PhD in renewable energy research, I'd love to hear from you.

Contact Me