Europe – PhD in Techno-Economic Assessment of Geothermal Plants at Forschungszentrum Jülich

PhD Position in Techno‑Economic Assessment of Geothermal Plants

University: Forschungszentrum Jülich

Country: Germany

Deadline:

Fields: Energy Technologies, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Renewable Energies, Geosciences

About The Institute

Forschungszentrum Jülich is one of Europe’s largest and most renowned interdisciplinary research centers, located in Jülich, North Rhine‑Westphalia, Germany. The Institute of Climate and Energy Systems – Jülich Systems Analysis (IEK-STE) is at the forefront of research into sustainable energy systems, providing critical analyses and scenarios for policymakers and industry stakeholders. Jülich’s modern campus offers state‑of‑the‑art scientific and technical infrastructure, fostering innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Its international environment and commitment to diversity make it a vibrant hub for researchers from around the world. Germany itself is a global leader in renewable energy research and implementation, offering an excellent quality of life, international networking opportunities, and a welcoming atmosphere for students and professionals alike.

Research Topic and Significance

This PhD position focuses on the techno‑economic assessment of geothermal plants with material co‑production within European energy systems. The research is part of the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie project MiningBrines, which aims to develop strategies for extracting and valorizing renewable energy, energetic gases, and critical raw materials (CRMs) such as lithium and boron from geothermal brines. As Europe accelerates its transition towards carbon neutrality, securing a stable supply of CRMs is crucial for energy technologies and economic resilience. Geothermal wells, traditionally used for heat energy, represent a largely untapped source of these materials. By integrating CRM extraction with renewable energy production, this research addresses both energy and resource security, supporting Europe’s strategic goals and informing future policy.

Project Details

As One Of 19 International PhD Candidates In The MiningBrines Network, You Will Evaluate The Economic Viability Of Geothermal Plants That Produce Power, Heat, And Critical Raw Materials. Your Work Will Involve

• Implementing geothermal plants with material co‑production in energy system optimization models, including reservoir productivity predictions, novel extraction processes, CO₂ reinjection, and reconversion of decommissioned oil wells.
• Conducting economic evaluations of traditional and innovative material extraction methods.
• Projecting future demand and price trends for critical materials.
• Identifying conditions for economic viability and competitiveness of geothermal plants.
• Assessing the strategic role of such plants in European energy systems.
• Collaborating with project partners to gather real‑world data and integrate findings into the open‑source FINE energy system modeling framework.

You will benefit from interdisciplinary training, international collaboration with 32 partners, and four secondments to industrial and academic institutions in France, Croatia, Turkey, and Hamburg (Germany). The position offers participation in conferences, workshops, and a structured doctoral program designed for completion within three years.

Candidate Profile

The Ideal Candidate Will Possess

• A Master’s degree (with very good results) in energy technologies, engineering, environmental sciences, renewable energies, industrial engineering, materials, geosciences, or a related field.
• Strong interest in energy technology, economics, and policy.
• Programming experience in Python or a comparable language.
• Experience in energy system modeling (advantageous).
• High motivation, independence, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills.
• Fluency in English (minimum B2 level CEFR); German is advantageous.
• Compliance with the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie mobility rule (not having lived/worked in Germany for more than 12 months in the past three years).

Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged, reflecting the institute’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and the promotion of women in science.

Application Process

The application deadline is .

Required Documents Include

• Curriculum vitae and letter of application
• A one‑page critical summary of an article of your choice
• Names of two referees (former teachers or supervisors, who will provide support letters)
• Academic credentials

For full details and to apply, please visit the official job posting:

Conclusion

This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting‑edge research at the intersection of energy systems and critical materials, supported by a leading European research institute and a vibrant international network. If you are motivated to make a meaningful contribution to Europe’s sustainable future and meet the outlined criteria, you are strongly encouraged to apply.

Questions and Answers

Question: What is the main focus of this PhD project?
Answer: The project centers on assessing the techno‑economic feasibility of integrating geothermal energy production with the extraction of critical raw materials from geothermal brines, using advanced energy system models.

Question: Who can apply for this position?
Answer: Applicants with a Master’s degree in energy technologies, engineering, environmental sciences, renewable energies, industrial engineering, materials, geosciences, or related fields, who meet the mobility requirements, are eligible.

Question: What are the benefits of studying at Forschungszentrum Jülich?
Answer: Jülich offers a world‑class research environment, interdisciplinary training, international networking, secondments abroad, and access to excellent infrastructure and support services.

Question: Does the position offer international mobility?
Answer: Yes, the program includes four secondments to project partners in France, Croatia, Turkey, and Hamburg, Germany, as well as collaboration with 32 international partners.

Question: What language skills are required?
Answer: Fluency in English (at least B2 level CEFR) is mandatory; German language skills are an asset but not required.

Question: Is prior experience in energy system modeling necessary?
Answer: Experience in energy system modeling is advantageous but not strictly required; programming skills in Python or similar languages are expected.

Question: How long is the PhD position?
Answer: The contract is fixed‑term for three years, with the expectation that the doctoral thesis will be completed within this period.

Question: Where can I find more information about the project and application process?
Answer: Full details are available on the official job page: