The TUM ENERGISE Center an international partnership between the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and four South African institutions: Tshwane University of Technology, University of the Witwatersrand, University of Johannesburg, and University of Venda has officially opened applications for two fully funded doctoral scholarships.
The program combines engineering, policy, and entrepreneurship research to support just, reliable, and sustainable energy transitions. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the German Federal Foreign Office, and the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, the scholarships run for three years, from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2029.
Available Research Areas
Reliability-Aware Operation of Renewable Mini-Grids: Focuses on developing reliability-aware control and planning methods to extend asset lifetimes, boost mini-grid resilience, and mitigate operational and actuarial risks.
Energy-System Planning for Just Energy Transition: Focuses on building an open-source, multi-resolution framework integrating demand forecasting, long-term capacity expansion planning, and operational dispatch under uncertainty.
Selected candidates will be supervised by Prof. Dr. Thomas Hamacher at TUM and co-supervised by academics from partner South African universities.
Scholarship Benefits & Obligations
- Monthly Stipend: EUR 1,300 per month.
- Mobility Support: EUR 2,000 for travel and research exchange between South Africa and Germany.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive insurance support included.
- Expectations: Scholars are required to publish in international academic journals, present at leading international conferences, and actively participate in academic exchanges between partner institutions.
Eligibility & Application Process
- Qualifications: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or a closely related field, with an excellent academic record.
- Residency: Open exclusively to South African citizens or permanent South African residents.
- Diversity: Qualified women and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply: Submit your CV, a motivation letter highlighting your fit with the TUM ENERGISE Center, and academic transcripts via the Online Application Form by 31 August 2026.
For enquiries, contact Dr.-Ing. Prashant Pant at prashant.pant@tum.de.