PhD in power and energy systems: North Carolina A&T State University is inviting applications for 1–2 fully funded PhD positions to join a research group in power and energy systems, starting in Spring or Fall 2026.
These positions are ideal for self-motivated students who want to work at the intersection of artificial intelligence, optimization, and cyber-physical power systems, with direct relevance to national energy security and infrastructure resilience.
The DOE P4REST PhD positions are supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). It offers rigorous technical training, hands-on experimentation, and the chance to contribute to solutions that protect critical power infrastructure from natural hazards and cyber-attacks.
Why Enrol For DOE P4REST PhD in power and energy systems
Funding and Support: These PhD positions are fully funded through DOE and NSF research grants, providing students with financial stability and access to high-quality research infrastructure.
Cutting-edge Research Tools: Gives access to advanced computing resources and power system simulation tools
Professional Collaboration: The program allows the selected candidates to collaborate on federally funded research with national relevance
Prominent University: North Carolina A&T State University is one of the leading public research institutions with a strong commitment to engineering education, innovation, and societal impact.
Program Description – PhD in power and energy systems
PhD students in this group will work on cutting-edge research topics. The position will be supported by DOE and NSF projects. The research focuses are:
- Develop AI and optimisation-based security and resilience tools for proactive preparation, detection, response, and recovery of power systems against natural hazards and cyber-attacks, and
- Develop cyber-physical testbeds using Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) for realistic simulation and validation of power system resilience strategies.
Qualification For DOE P4REST PhD in power and energy systems 2026
- Ideal candidates should have a BS and MS degrees in Electrical Engineering, Control & Automation, Industrial & Systems Engineering, or Applied Mathematics.
- Must have strong interests in power and energy systems
- Applicants must have strong programming skills. Preferred experience with one or more tools: Python / Julia (CVXPY, JuMP), CPLEX, GAMS, PowerWorld, PSCAD, MATLAB / Simulink.
Application Process For DOE P4REST PhD in power and energy systems
Interested applicants should fill out this form with this link
Chosen candidates will be contacted via email for further discussion and next steps.
Documents to attach include the following:
- GRE score
- ELTS or TOEFL score
- Cover letter (CV)
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- List of accepted, submitted journal or conference papers.
- Other notes on your research backgrounds
- Two or three references’ names and email addresses
Why Choose This PhD Program?
This PhD opportunity stands out for its strong alignment with real-world challenges and federal research priorities. Students will graduate with:
- Deep expertise in power system resilience and security
- Strong skills in AI, optimisation, and cyber-physical systems
- Hands-on experience with Hardware-in-the-Loop platforms
- A research profile connected to DOE and NSF-funded projects
Deadline and Contact Information
Application Deadline: The applications for the DOE P4REST PhD Student Position 2026 are reviewed on a rolling basis; Hence early submissions are encouraged.