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In this PhD project, you will tackle the critical challenge of balancing hydropower energy production with competing water demands, such as irrigation and flood control, in reservoirs impacted by climate change and extreme weather events. Hydropower plays a vital role in the global energy transition, providing essential renewable energy and supporting grid balancing between supply and demand. However, its reliability is increasingly threatened by changes in water availability and the emergence of extreme conditions, such as droughts and floods, which complicate reservoir management.
The research will focus on the Rhine basin, a transboundary river system where trade-offs exist between national water and hydroelectric needs, impacting downstream water levels and increasing the risk of conflicts. The Rhine basin is ideal for this study due to its wealth of high-quality data and established models, allowing for accurate predictions of reservoir water levels. However, managing water use across borders requires careful coordination, as unilateral actions by one country can significantly affect others.
You will aim to develop advanced modelling frameworks and operational schemes to optimise the use of hydropower reservoirs for multiple purposes, including flood control, drought management, freshwater provision, and energy supply security. By considering trade-offs and synergies, this research will help ensure hydropower resilience in the face of future climate extremes while minimising conflict and enhancing cooperation in transboundary regions like the Rhine.
With your strong skills in data analysis, modelling, and optimisation—particularly in water and energy systems—you will be able to carry out the following key methods:
You will also publish your results in peer-reviewed journals, present at international conferences, and dedicate 10% of your time to teaching.
To excel in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and skills:
Useful additional skills:
We offer:
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