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Energetics and Power Engineering

These PhD studies are designed for early-career researchers who want to combine theory and practice to develop innovative and efficient technologies. Key research areas include sustainable energy, the thermo-engineering of transport processes and smart technologies for electrical power systems. Doctoral students will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art research equipment and participate in interdisciplinary projects.

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Values of the Science Field

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Relevance

This study programme encourages students to conduct research that addresses global challenges by promoting sustainable energy and reducing environmental impact. Research in energetics and power engineering enhances energy technologies, while smart grid modelling supports the development of secure and sustainable energy systems.

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Opportunities

Doctoral students conduct high-level research at national and international levels, making use of unique infrastructure and international project opportunities to develop their skills and build connections with global energy institutions. Graduates are equipped to innovate and solve complex problems in sustainable energetics and power engineering.

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Benefits

Doctoral students have the opportunity to earn the Doctor Europaeus Certificate, pursue a double degree with the University of Bologna, take part in university-funded skills development programmes and engage in paid project activities. Other benefits include gaining teaching experience, presenting research at science events and collaborating with industry and businesses.

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Funding

Doctoral students receive a wide range of financial support, including monthly scholarships, funding for studies and research, and the opportunity to participate in international conferences and Erasmus+ programmes abroad. One-off and annual awards for academic and research excellence encourage active scientific engagement.

Research Topics

Topic title	Possible scientific supervisors	Source of funding
Fundamental and applied research on transfer phenomena in thermal engineering	doc. dr. Linas Paukštaitis »	state-funded
Hybrid Model–Data-Driven Methods for Reliable Monitoring and Control in Future Decentralized Power Grids	prof. dr. Saulius Gudžius »	state-funded	Research Topic Summary. The research focuses on developing reliable state estimation and control algorithms for future low-inertia, highly distributed energy systems dominated by inverter-based and variable renewable generation. As these systems become more dynamic and increasingly dependent on cyber-physical communication networks, traditional monitoring and control methods lose effectiveness. The research will develop mathematical and hybrid (digital-twin- and data-driven) techniques that efficiently use limited measurement and communication resources, and will validate distributed control solutions under critical events and data uncertainties. The expected outcome is a set of robust methods that enable stable and secure operation of next-generation power systems under high variability and restricted communication conditions.
Analysis of determination methods of factors caused disturbances and faults in high voltage power grid	prof. dr. Audrius Jonaitis »	state-funded

Admission Requirements and Study Modules in the Field of Science

Cycle – third cycle

Form, duration – full-time studies (4 yr.)

Language – Lithuanian, English

Degree awarded – Doctor of Science

Study Modules

Main modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Power Systems Reliability Models	9	On-campus learning
Sustainable Energy and Environment	9	Blended learning
Thermodynamics	9	On-campus learning

Alternative modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Combine Transfer Processes in Fluid Flows	9	On-campus learning
Dynamics and Stability of Power Systems	9	On-campus learning
Simulation of Accidental Thermal-Hydraulic Processes	9	On-campus learning

Elective modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Electromagnetic Processes in Electrical Power Systems	6	On-campus learning
Power System Planning and Control	6	On-campus learning
Thermal Hydromechanics of Single-Phase Flow	6	On-campus learning

Core skills modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Academic and Technical Research Writing	1	Blended learning
Design Thinking in Research	2	On-campus learning
Digital Support and Tools for Research Writing and Publication	2	Blended learning
Research Data Management	1	On-campus learning
Research Ethics	1	On-campus learning
Research Project Grant Management	2	Blended learning
Science Communication for the Public	1	Distance learning
Systematic Literature Review	1	Blended learning

Good to know

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Admission requirements and minimum competition scores

Persons with a Master's Degree or equivalent degree of higher education in Technological Sciences or Natural Sciences (fields of Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Informatics, Biophysics, Ecology and Environmental Studies)

may participate in an open competition for admission to doctoral studies.

Applicants to the doctoral field of science are accepted by competition according to the competition score.

Minimum competition score 8.0.

Selection criteria and their weighted coeficients

	0,35	weighted grade point average of the diploma supplement
	0,3	research experience
	0,35	motivation interview

admission requirements dates and deadlines for admission all science (art) fields

Testimonials

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The best thing about my studies is the helpfulness of the lecturers and their dedication to our learning. My field of study is unique in that KTU is the only institution in Lithuania that trains thermal engineering specialists. Participating in international events and having the opportunity to study at institutions abroad has broadened my horizons. I am also grateful for the chance to use KTU’s databases and its state-of-the-art laboratories.

Justina Menkeliūnienė

PhD student

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My studies at KTU not only allowed me to deepen my knowledge but also enabled me to view energy from a broader perspective. Participating in scientific activities and international projects helped me to gain a better understanding of the development of this field and its significance for the future. The energy sector is changing rapidly, and KTU provides the tools to understand and influence these changes.

Mantas Zelba

PhD student

FAQ

When does admission take place?

Applications to Energetics and Power Engineering should be submitted during the main KTU doctoral admission period in June. If places remain available after this stage, an additional admission is announced in autumn. Exact dates can be found in the “Dates and Deadlines” section.

What are the priority research topics in this field?

Priority research areas include sustainable energy, power engineering of transport processes, and smart technologies in electrical energy systems.

What Master’s degree is required for admission?

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent higher education certificate in Technological Sciences or Natural Sciences fields (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Informatics, Biophysics, Ecology and Environmental Studies).