PhD Opportunities

Interdisciplinary Research in Sustainable Energy at Reykjavik University

The Iceland School of Energy (ISE) serves as a bridge for aspiring researchers in sustainable energy. Hosted within the Department of Engineering, ISE collaborates across all departments at Reykjavik University, including engineering, law, and business. Our diverse research community welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds.

While ISE does not directly administer PhD programs, we support students interested in sustainable energy studies, with Reykjavik University conferring the degrees. ISE facilitates connections, teaching, and research opportunities while the specific rules and requirements for the PhD program are set by the department in which the student is enrolled.

Student Spotlight

20220523_130214-2 Magnus de Witt earned his PhD in Sustainable Energy Supply in Rural Arctic Areas in 2022. He is now a Research Assistant Professor at the Alaska Center for Energy and Power (ACEP), focusing on energy transitions in Alaska and remote communities.

His PhD research at Reykjavik University explored sustainable energy options for Arctic communities, aiming to reduce energy costs through mature energy technologies. He mapped energy sources and demand across the Arctic.

De Witt also holds a Master's in Sustainable Energy Engineering from the Iceland School of Energy, where he focused on geothermal power plant optimization. He has conducted field studies across the Arctic to better understand local energy challenges.

PhD Opportunities with ISE

ISE fosters an interdisciplinary research environment, connecting students to experts across fields like engineering, policy, law, and business. Whether exploring geothermal energy, advancing renewable technologies, or focusing on policy and social impact, ISE helps align students with the resources and supervisors they need.

Many of our PhD students continue their research after completing their Master's at ISE, building on their established networks and expertise.

How to Find PhD Positions

  • Open PhD Opportunities: Available PhD positions are posted on Reykjavik University's 50skills page: RU PhD Positions. Interested candidates can view current listings and apply directly through this portal.

  • Already Secured Funding?: If you have already secured funding for a PhD and are interested in studying with ISE, please reach out to us at ise@ru.is. We are happy to help connect you with the right supervisors and resources for your research.

Areas of Focus

ISE is committed to fostering research in diverse fields related to sustainable energy. Areas of interest include:

  • Geothermal Energy: From geothermal reservoir modeling to field exploration and energy production.
  • Hydro and Wind Energy: Developing efficient systems and improving current technologies.
  • Economic and Regulatory Aspects: Exploring the financial and policy challenges of sustainable energy implementation.
  • Social Impact: Investigating the societal aspects and benefits of energy transition.
  • Legal and Policy Research: Analyzing how legal frameworks and policies can support sustainable energy initiatives.

Why Pursue a PhD with ISE?

  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Engage with experts across disciplines like engineering, economics, policy, and law.
  • Collaborative Environment: Benefit from ISE's partnerships with industry leaders, universities, and research institutions.
  • Tailored Research: We help students align their research with Iceland's unique sustainable energy resources and with projects that have real-world applications.

Contact Us

For any questions or further information about PhD opportunities at ISE, contact us via email at ise@ru.is.

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