PhD / Doctorate: Co-Simulation and Digital Twinning in Hydropower

The research will be conducted at the HES-SO Valais-Wallis in close collaboration with the EFPL as part of a joined project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The project aims to enhance digital twins by not only integrating real-world data but also expanding their capabilities through co-simulation of different models.

Additionally, the project is part of the COST Action CA21104 “Pan-European Network for Sustainable Hydropower (PEN@Hydropower)”, further expanding the scientific network supporting this research.

The goal is to enable the close coupling of numerical models for co-simulation while linking them with measurement data from physical devices to build better digital twins of those installations. In particular, we will focus on the start-up procedures of hydropower installations, which consist of multiple components that have been studied individually in the scientific community. By coupling existing models and linking them with real-world data, this research aims to fully leverage prior research. To achieve this, the IT-focused group at the HES-SO Valais-Wallis is collaborating with the Technology Platform for Hydraulic Machines at EPFL in Lausanne, bringing together the necessary expertise.

The candidate must have proven expertise in efficient data handling, as the coupling process needs to be performed within strict computational time constraints. A strong understanding of the underlying numerical models will be beneficial during this process. Additionally, experience in calibrating simulation models and evaluating their performance is important for this project.

Responsibilities for the position:

• Develop innovative solutions to advance co-simulation and digital twinning
• Coordinate research activities within the project
• Disseminate findings through scientific publications
• Support the acquisition of additional funding for the research group

Selection criteria

• Highly motivated to work on an interdisciplinary research project
• MSc in a relevant field, demonstrating strong analytical skills and excellent performance
• Strong software development skills
• Experience with numerical models, preferably in the hydropower domain

Selection criteria

• Highly motivated to work on an interdisciplinary research project
• MSc in a relevant field, demonstrating strong analytical skills and excellent performance
• Strong software development skills
• Experience with numerical models, preferably in the hydropower domain

2-year contract (with the possibility of extension), full-time position

Start: September 2025

Competitive salary

The PhD will be awarded in collaboration with EPFL, and candidates are encouraged to apply concurrently to the EPFL Doctoral Program in Energy (EDEY).

For further inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr René Schumann (E-Mail : rene.schumann(α)hevs.ch)

Please submit your complete application documents (CV, motivation letter, diplomas and certificates) by 30 April 2025 by clicking on the Apply button. Only online applications will be considered.