The research will be carried out in the ELECTA research group of the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) of KU Leuven, under the supervision of Prof. Hussain Kazmi who heads the research line on energy and data science. Our focus is (1) on developing cutting-edge machine learning algorithms to model and forecast energy demand, generation and markets, and (2) on the control of energy flexible resources to provide grid services.
Website unit
Responsibilities
Algorithms have permeated every aspect of the modern energy system. Increasingly, learning based solutions are replacing existing rule-based and heuristic systems. However, despite their appeal, such systems come with their own challenges ranging from sample inefficiency to poor generalization potential in unseen conditions. The postdoc will support the group’s vision by working closely with a young but brilliant team of PhD researchers to develop cutting-edge algorithms which can address these, and other risks posed by the indiscriminate adoption of algorithms in energy systems.
Additionally, the postdoc will help shape the future of how (and what) energy engineers learn by being involved in a large European project on educational design. This entails making research available to students in a more approachable format (think 3Blue1Brown or Statcraft but for energy). This project will also enable the postdoc to interact with and learn about researchers and professors not just in KU Leuven but also several other top engineering schools in Europe.
Profile
- We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with a PhD degree in engineering, AI or a related field, from a reputable institute.
- Candidates should ideally have a strong background in developing AI / ML / DS algorithms for energy systems modelling and optimization.
- Programming experience with Python (exceptions can be made for R and/or Julia) is a must.
- Applicants should be fluent in English.
Offer
KU Leuven is among the top European universities, and a key player in the field of energy research.
- We offer:A post-doc position for one year, with the strong possibility for extension.
- The candidate will in principle be hired on a post-doctoral scholarship (~€2,900 net monthly) Multiple benefits (health insurance, access to university infrastructure and sports facilities, etc.)
- The opportunity to participate in international research projects and present results at conferences.
This research will be performed within the framework of EnergyVille, a research collaboration on sustainable energy between KU Leuven, VITO, Imec, and UHasselt.
Interested?
https://www.esat.kuleuven.be/electa - Electa Research Group
https://energyville.be/en/ - EnergyVille
Applicants should express their interest by sending an email with the subject ‘Postdoc in energy & AI’ to Prof. Hussain Kazmi at [email protected]. The email should *strictly* contain the following information in the text body, in bullets:
· Name
· PhD degree (PhD specification, University + Country, Year obtained, Promotor)
· PhD thesis title
· Three most relevant publications (journal, conference proceedings)
· A one-paragraph (up to half an A4 page) statement explaining the motivation for applying for this vacancy at KU Leuven. We strongly encourage you to have a look at some of the group’s recent publications.
Please also attach an academic CV to your email.
Please do not directly apply in the online system as referred to below. This will be only necessary for selected candidates in a second stage.
Note that if you do not receive a response to your email within two weeks, this means you have not been selected for the second stage.
Decision: as soon as a suitable candidate applies, so do not wait till the end date (indicated below) to apply.
For more information please contact Prof. Hussain Kazmi at [email protected].
Last date to apply: 30 June, 2025.
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
