Postdoc in Advanced Heat Pump Technology and Integration DTU Construct

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoc to contribute to our research activities on the development optimization and integration of large-scale heat pumps for industrial processes and district heating applications.

Large-scale heat pumps are considered a key technology for the electrification and decarbonization of heat supply making them essential to the sustainable transition of industrial and energy systems. Their performance and economic viability can be significantly enhanced through advanced heat pump technologies including the use of zeotropic addition successful deployment requires effective integration into industrial facilities and district heating networks to maximize emissions reductions and economic benefits.

Through this work you will contribute to the green transition of the energy and industrial sector and support the ambitious efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As a Postdoc you will conduct both numerical and experimental investigations of heat pump systems operating with zeotropic mixtures. You will also perform techno-economic and integration studies of large-scale heat pumps in industrial and district heating applications helping to identify pathways for efficient and cost-effective implementation of this technology.

Responsibilities and qualifications
Your research will focus on the development of advanced numerical models for heat pumps operating with zeotropic mixtures. The modelling framework will encompass both detailed component-level models and full-system simulations. These models will be developed and validated using experimental data and applied to improve the energy performance and economic viability of next-generation heat pump systems.

In addition you will contribute to our international research collaborations on industrial energy systems and high-temperature heat pumps through activities within the International Energy Agency (IEA). Working closely with academic and industrial partners you will help develop innovative solutions for large-scale heat pumps systems while contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the field.

Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Develop advanced numerical models of heat pumps operating with zeotropic refrigerant mixtures and their key components using modern modelling and simulation tools.
• Plan and conduct experimental campaigns on zeotropic mixture heat pump systems in collaboration with external partners.
• Validate and refine the developed models using laboratory-scale experiments and full-scale demonstration data.
• Develop and assess optimized control strategies and system designs for large-scale heat pumps based on the modelling framework.
• Perform thermo-economic and integration studies to evaluate the role of heat pumps in industrial energy systems and district heating networks.
• Publish and disseminate research findings through scientific journals conferences workshops and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of new research proposals projects and collaborative initiatives.
• Participate in teaching activities and the supervision of students at all levels including BSc and MSc thesis projects.

As a formal qualification you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

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 terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional addition supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTUs salary structure for scientific staff: period of employment is 1 year and 4 months starting on 1 October 2026 or according to mutual agreement.

You can read more aboutcareer paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Jonas Kjær Jensen

You can read more about DTU Constructat:

If you are applying from abroad you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU atDTU Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 4 September 2026 (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:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD in English)
• List of publications

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.

DTU Civil and Mechanical Engineering develops and utilizes science and technical knowledge for the benefit of society and sustainable development. We undertake research education innovation and scientific advice of the highest quality within building design and processes building construction and safety building energy and installation solid mechanics fluid mechanics materials technology manufacturing engineering engineering design and thermal energy systems.

DTU For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europes leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europes global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13800 students 1600 PhD students and 6500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive stimulating and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.