PhD Scholarship in Fusion Energy at DTU/KTH
Novel Path to Improved Fusion Reactor Performance through Controlled Powder Injection.
Are you passionate about cutting-edge energy research?
Join a unique collaborative PhD project between DTU and KTH , combining advanced plasma modelling expertise to tackle one of the most dynamic challenges in energy science: improving fusion reactor performance through controlled powder injection .
This project explores the complex physics of plasma-material interactions , powder ablation , and plasma turbulence in fusion devices. The aim is to develop a novel numerical simulation tool that integrates DTU’s strengths in plasma turbulence modelling with KTH’s expertise in plasma-material interaction modelling.
The research is highly relevant to full-tungsten reactors such as ITER and DEMO , directly contributing to the EUROfusion roadmap . Experimental validation will be supported through DTU’s NORTH tokamak and large-scale European facilities like TCV and MAST-U .
Responsibilities and qualifications
This position centres on numerical investigations using high-performance computing, with a strong emphasis on evaluating simulation results against experimental data in the context of fusion energy research.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement numerical models for powder ablation and plasma interaction.
- Collaborate with researchers at DTU and KTH, under joint supervision.
- Participate in experimental design and validation using EUROfusion and DTU facilities.
- Undertake a 6-month (or longer) research stay at KTH, including coursework and code development.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in physics, Engineering, or related field.
- Strong background in either plasma physics, computational modelling, or fusion energy.
- Experience with numerical simulation tools is an advantage.
- Excellent collaboration and communication skills.
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Approval and Enrolment The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education .
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Senior Scientist Anders Henry Nielsen , DTU Physics and Professor Svetlana Ratynskaia , KTH Stockholm, Sweden.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
The period of employment is 3 years. Starting date is February 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Senior Scientist Anders Henry Nielsen , hardinkathleenahnieherringelizabeth@alvarez.dkfysik.dtu.dkcruz-potter.dkgoodwin.dk , +45 2245 4536.
You can read more about the plasma physics section at DTU Physics at https://physics.dtu.dk/research/sections/ppfe .
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than30 September 2025 (23:59 Danish time) . Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
The mission of the Plasma Physics and Fusion Energy section is to bring fusion power, a viable and sustainable way to produce energy, to the grid. We deliver a high-quality, coherent, and effective Danish contribution to the international fusion programme, in accordance with the European Roadmap. We also promote fusion energy through education, outreach, and public dissemination to stakeholders.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.