Doctoral Researcher in Power System Dynamics

About the role

Aalto University's Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation is seeking a doctoral researcher to join the Research Group of Power Transmission Systems. The project investigates interactions between the power grid and turbine-generators, using the Olkiluoto 3 nuclear power plant as the main case study, with the aim of improving understanding, monitoring and mitigation of subsynchronous resonance and oscillations caused by grid disturbances. The researcher will collaborate with companies such as TVO and Fingrid.

Key responsibilities

• Monitoring and data analysis: apply and develop methods to estimate torsional oscillation frequencies, damping and amplitudes from phasor measurement unit (PMU) data, and analyse long-term measurements to see how these properties depend on grid operating conditions.
• Modelling and mitigation: develop and validate simulation models of grid-generator interactions, especially in systems with a high share of power converters.
• Assess oscillation and resonance risks from converter interactions and forced oscillations from large loads such as data centres, and evaluate strategies to prevent or damp harmful oscillations.

Required profile

• Master's degree in electrical power engineering or a related field.
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• Desired: experience with power system simulation tools (dynamic simulations), signal processing, time series analysis or machine learning, and programming in MATLAB and/or Python.

What we offer

• Fixed-term position under Aalto's standard 2+2 model: two years initially, then two more after a mid-term review, starting in January 2027 or as mutually agreed.
• Starting salary of 3,143 EUR per month, set according to the Finnish university salary system.
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and tools, and an international research environment combining academic research and industry perspective.

Applications close on 18 October 2026. Candidates apply through the university's online recruitment system with a motivation letter, CV, transcripts and diplomas.