Application deadline
30/11/2026
Research theme
Power and Energy Systems
This3.5-yearPhDprojectisfullyfunded;studentswhoareeligibletopaytuitionfeesattheHomerateareeligibletoapply.Thesuccessfulcandidatewillreceiveanannualtax-freestipendsetattheUKRIrate(£21,805for2026/27)andtuitionfeeswillbepaid.Weexpectthestipendtoincreaseeachyear.ThestartdateisJanuary2027.
Wererecommendthatyouapplyearlyastheadvertmayberemovedbeforethedeadline.
This fully funded 3.5-year PhD studentship is open to home students only. It covers home tuition fees and a tax-free annual stipend at the standard UKRI rate.
Renewables, HVDC systems, and battery energy storage systems are increasingly connected to power networks through power electronic converters. These sources, commonly known as inverter-based resources (IBRs), typically contribute limited fault current, and the phase of the injected current is dictated by their control systems, which can vary significantly between manufacturers and grid-code requirements. With synchronous generators and IBRs sharing the network in changing proportions, fault behaviour becomes harder to predict, and relays can no longer rely on the assumptions on which conventional protection was designed.
This PhD project will develop protection methods that remain reliable regardless of generation technology or converter control strategy. The research will involve power system and IBR modelling, protection algorithm development, laboratory prototyping, and validation through real-time simulation and hardware-in-the-loop testing on RTDS.
You will join the Power Systems Group at the University of Manchester, which has a strong international reputation in power systems research, with access to state-of-the-art real-time simulation and protection testing facilities. You will receive training in power system protection, have opportunities to publish in leading journals and present at international conferences, and engage with professional bodies such as IEEE, IET, and CIGRE.
Candidates should hold, or expect to obtain, a First Class or Upper Second Class (2:1) UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Power Systems, Power Electronics, Control Engineering, or a closely related discipline. A master's degree in a relevant area is desirable but not essential. Experience in power systems, power electronics, control, electromagnetic transient simulation, or power system protection would be an advantage. Applicants must be eligible for home fee status.
£21,805 annual tax-free stipend and tuition fees will be paid
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PhD Studentship: Source-Independent Protection for Inverter-Dominated Power Networks in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values diversity and inclusivity. As a Sport Centre Assistant, you'll enjoy flexible shifts while contributing to a dynamic environment that prioritises high-quality experiences for all users. With ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, working at our esteemed institution allows you to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
