Open Positions

The Institute of Communication and Power Networks welcomes enquiries from motivated applicants interested in doctoral study, visiting research, and collaborative projects. Our work spans smart energy systems, communication networks, wireless communications, control engineering, and AI.

Why Join Us?

  • Impactful Research: Contribute to projects on net zero energy, electrification, resilient communications, and intelligent control
  • Collaborative Environment: Work with researchers across energy, communications, sensing, and AI
  • Industry Engagement: Benefit from collaborations with National Grid, Ofgem, Network Rail, and other partners
  • Research Training: Access conferences, seminars, and advanced research infrastructure in EEE
  • Global Outlook: Join an internationally connected research environment at the University of Leeds
Postdoctoral Positions

Postdoctoral Research Opportunities

Postdoctoral opportunities depend on funded project availability. We are particularly interested in researchers with strengths in one or more of the following areas:

Relevant backgrounds:

  • Smart energy systems and power networks
  • Battery management systems and electro-thermal modelling
  • Communication networks and wireless systems
  • Control engineering, optimisation, and model predictive control
  • AI and machine learning for complex engineering systems

Typical requirements:

  • PhD in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Control, Energy Systems, Communications, Computer Science, or a related field
  • Strong publication record and evidence of independent research
  • Programming and modelling skills relevant to the project area

Application materials usually include:

  • CV including publication list
  • Brief statement of research interests
  • Names of academic referees
  • Selected publications or evidence of recent research outputs

Please contact Professor Kang Li if you would like to discuss potential fit before applying.

PhD Student Positions

PhD Opportunities

We welcome enquiries from applicants interested in PhD research in areas such as:

  • Smart Energy Systems: Microgrids, railway energy hubs, EV charging, and energy flexibility
  • Battery Intelligence: State estimation, degradation analysis, sensing, and thermal management
  • Communication Networks: Energy-efficient network systems and resilient communications infrastructure
  • Control and AI: Physics-informed AI, nonlinear system modelling, optimisation, and decision support

Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Control, Energy, Communications, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related areas
  • Strong analytical and programming skills
  • Interest in interdisciplinary engineering research
  • Excellent communication skills

How to Apply: Applications are normally submitted through the University of Leeds postgraduate research application process. When contacting us, include your CV, transcripts, and a short summary of your research interests.

Applicants are encouraged to email Professor Kang Li in advance to discuss alignment with current projects and funding opportunities.

Visiting and Collaborative Opportunities

Visiting Researchers and External Collaborators

We also welcome discussions with:

  • Visiting PhD Students interested in short-term collaboration
  • Academic Visitors exploring sabbatical or joint research opportunities
  • Industry Partners seeking collaborative work on energy, transport, communications, and AI applications

Please get in touch with a short outline of your background, your proposed collaboration area, and your preferred timing.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should email Professor Kang Li with a CV and a short description of their research interests.

Please use a subject line such as “PhD enquiry”, “Postdoctoral enquiry”, or “Research collaboration enquiry” so your message can be routed efficiently.

The University of Leeds is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and we welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

Contact Professor Kang Li
School Context

The School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Leeds offers a strong environment for postgraduate and collaborative research, with internationally recognised work in communications, energy systems, control, and intelligent engineering.

Our institute works closely with academic and industrial stakeholders and supports research that connects theory, modelling, experimentation, and deployment.

For research and study opportunities, please contact Professor Kang Li.