Full-time study

4 years

prof. RNDr. Vladimír Aubrecht, CSc.

Chairman :
prof. RNDr. Vladimír Aubrecht, CSc.
Councillor internal :
doc. Ing. Petr Mastný, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Jiří Drápela, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Pavel Vorel, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Ondřej Vítek, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Petr Toman, Ph.D.
Councillor external :
prof. Ing. Radomír Goňo, Ph.D.
Ing. Petr Modlitba, CSc.
prof. Ing. Aleš Richter, CSc.
Ing. Zdeněk Wolf

The doctor study programme is devoted to the preparation of the high quality scientific and research specialists in various branches of power electronics, control technology, design of electrical machines, electric power generation and distribution, and electric power utilization.
The aim is to provide the doctor education in all these particular branches to students educated in university magister study, to make deeper their theoretical knowledge, to give them also requisite special knowledge and practical skills and to teach them methods of scientific work.

The goal of the postgradual doctoral (PhD) study of the program "Power Systems and Power Electronics" is the education for scientific work in the area of power electrical engineering and power systems. Graduates of PhD find occupation either as scientific or research workers including industrial development, either as university teachers and in higher manager functions as well.

The graduate of the doctor study program "Power Systems and Power Electronics" obtains broad knowledge of subject of high power engineering. The knowledge is built mainly on theoretical background of the subject. Moreover, the graduate will obtain deep special knowledge aimed in direction of his/her thesis. The graduate will be able to perform scientific and/or applied research based on up to date theoretical knowledge. The graduate will be able to organize and lead a team of researchers in the studied subject.

Doctoral studies are carried out according to the individual study plan, which is prepared by the supervisor in the beginning of the study in cooperation with the doctoral student. The individual curriculum specifies all the duties determined in accordance with the BUT Study and Examination Rules, which the doctoral student must fulfill to successfully finish his studies. These responsibilities are time-bound throughout the study period, they are scored and fixed at fixed deadlines.
Students will write and pass tests of obligatory subject Exam in English before the state doctoral examination, compulsory elective courses in view of the focus of his dissertation, whereas at least two are selected from: Mathematical Modelling of Electrical Power Systems, New Trends and Technologies in Power System Generation, Selected problems from power electronics and electrical drives, Topical Issues of Electrical Machines and Apparatus), and at least two optional subjects (English for PhD students; Quoting in Scientific Practice; Resolving Innovation Assignments; Scientific Publishing from A to Z).
The student may enroll for the state doctoral exam only after all the tests prescribed by his / her individual study plan have been completed. Before the state doctoral exam, the student draws up a dissertation thesis describing in detail the aims of the thesis, a thorough evaluation of the state of knowledge in the area of the dissertation solved, or the characteristics of the methods it intends to apply in the solution.
The defense of the controversy that is opposed is part of the state doctoral exam. In the next part of the exam, the student must demonstrate deep theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of electrical engineering, electronics, electrical machines, and electrical apparatus. The state doctoral examination is in oral form and, in addition to the discussion on the dissertation thesis, it also consists of thematic areas related to compulsory and compulsory elective subjects.
To defend the dissertation, the student reports after the state doctoral examination and after fulfilling conditions for termination, such as participation in teaching, scientific and professional activity (creative activity) and at least a monthly study or work placement at a foreign institution or participation in an international creative project.

The doctoral studies of a student follow the Individual Study Plan (ISP), which is defined by the supervisor and the student at the beginning of the study period. The ISP is obligatory for the student, and specifies all duties being consistent with the Study and Examination Rules of BUT, which the student must successfully fulfill by the end of the study period. The duties are distributed throughout the whole study period, scored by credits/points and checked in defined dates. The current point evaluation of all activities of the student is summarized in the “Total point rating of doctoral student” document and is part of the ISP. At the beginning of the next study year the supervisor highlights eventual changes in ISP. By October, 15 of each study year the student submits the printed and signed ISP to Science Department of the faculty to check and archive.
Within the first four semesters the student passes the exams of compulsory, optional-specialized and/or optional-general courses to fulfill the score limit in Study area, and concurrently the student significantly deals with the study and analysis of the knowledge specific for the field defined by the dissertation thesis theme and also continuously deals with publishing these observations and own results. In the follow-up semesters the student focuses already more to the research and development that is linked to the dissertation thesis topic and to publishing the reached results and compilation of the dissertation thesis.
By the end of the second year of studies the student passes the Doctor State Exam, where the student proves the wide overview and deep knowledge in the field linked to the dissertation thesis topic. The student must apply for this exam by April, 30 in the second year of studies. Before the Doctor State Exam the student must successfully pass the exam from English language course.
In the third and fourth year of studies the student deals with the required research activities, publishes the reached results and compiles the dissertation thesis. As part of the study duties is also completing a study period at an abroad institution or participation on an international research project with results being published or presented in abroad or another form of direct participation of the student on an international cooperation activity, which must be proved by the date of submitting the dissertation thesis.
By the end of the winter term in the fourth year of study the students submit the elaborated dissertation thesis to the supervisor, who scores this elaborate. The final dissertation thesis is expected to be submitted by the student by the end of the fourth year of studies.
In full-time study form, during the study period the student is obliged to pass a pedagogical practice, i.e. participate in the education process. The participation of the student in the pedagogical activities is part of his/her research preparations. By the pedagogical practice the student gains experience in passing the knowledge and improves the presentation skills. The pedagogical practice load (exercises, laboratories, project supervision etc.) of the student is specified by the head of the department based on the agreement with the student’s supervisor. The duty of pedagogical practice does not apply to students-payers and combined study program students. The involvement of the student in the education process within the pedagogical practice is confirmed by the supervisor in the Information System of the university.

1. round (applications submitted from 01.04.2026 to 30.04.2026)

1. Active power reserve estimation on unbalanced distribution network for the needs of flexibility

   The theses is focused on the state estimation of the power/current flow in individual phases of unbalanced distribution network for the needs of assessing the available power load in the points of common coupling (PCC). This information is a necessary basis for flexibility concept utilization, or load management concepts using multi-tariff structures or flexible tariffs in PCC. To determine the available load, unbalanced distribution system models and asymmetrically measured data from both distributed measurement and load diagrams determined by the operator will be used. As part of this issue, in addition to state estimation, the prediction of available load for the needs of flexibility will be solved, using long-term measurement information from PCC or distribution transformer stations MV/LV. In this area, an analysis of the time of maximal prediction will be performed, taking into account the variable availability of measurements, the number of monitored parameters and load diagrams. The main challenge of this topic is to find a method that minimizes the need for measurements (number of locations and monitored parameters) in order to reliably estimate the assimmetrical load of the system.

   Supervisor: Topolánek David, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

2. Advanced Methods for the Design and Analysis of Compact Electrical Motors

   The topic focuses on advanced methods for the design, modeling, and analysis of highly integrated compact electric motors, with the aim of achieving high efficiency, high torque and power density, while meeting requirements for low weight, small dimensions, and operational reliability. The research will cover various topologies of compact electrical machines (e.g., radial and axial configurations), including variants with integrated structural drive components, with an emphasis on suitability for applications with limited installation space.

   A key challenge is the design of the electromagnetic circuit and the machine’s active parts so that the required torque characteristics are ensured across the entire operating range while minimizing volume and losses. The work will focus on optimizing the geometry and material composition of the magnetic circuit, winding design, and the selection of permanent magnets with respect to demagnetization, efficiency, and manufacturability. It will also address thermal design aspects (loss dissipation, temperature distribution, thermal stability of magnets and insulation), mechanical integrity (strength, rotor dynamics, vibration, noise), and the appropriate integration of the motor into the final mechatronic system.

   The research will employ modern computational and simulation tools for numerical modeling of electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical phenomena, including multiphysics analyses and optimization procedures. Special emphasis will be placed on the development of design methodologies for rapid topology comparison, sensitivity analysis, and robust optimization with respect to manufacturing tolerances and variability in material parameters. The work will include prototyping of selected solutions and experimental verification of the achieved performance (torque characteristics, efficiency, temperature rise, acoustic behavior), including the design and implementation of suitable measurement methods.

   The research outcomes may find application across a range of industrial areas requiring compact and efficient drives, for example in automation, mobile robotics, conveyor technology, or specialized equipment with demands for low noise and a high degree of integration.

   A research stay of the PhD student at a foreign university focused on advanced electrical machine development is expected—LUT University (Finland), which is part of the EULiST alliance, appears to be a suitable partner. Continuous publication of research results at international conferences and in Q1 and Q2 scientific journals is anticipated.

   Supervisor: Bárta Jan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

3. Advanced Monitoring and Predictive Assessment of Voltage Quality in Power Systems

   Measurement and evaluation of voltage quality in power systems are currently based on standardized methods defined primarily in the IEC 61000-4-X series and in the European standard EN 50160. These approaches rely on signal processing techniques used to derive specific voltage quality indices associated with particular types of disturbances, such as harmonic distortion, voltage fluctuations, or voltage unbalance. The resulting assessment is typically retrospective and performed over a predefined evaluation period, most commonly one week, leading to a binary conclusion on whether the voltage quality requirements are fulfilled or not.

   With the ongoing transformation of power systems, particularly due to the increasing penetration of power electronic converters, distributed energy resources, and active customers, the need for continuous monitoring of voltage quality and the capability to anticipate its future development is growing. This requirement is further reinforced by the expected introduction of automatic compensation mechanisms for voltage quality non-compliance and by the increasing demand for more active and adaptive operation of power systems.

   The objective of the dissertation is therefore to research and develop advanced methods for continuous assessment, diagnostics, and prediction of voltage quality in power systems. The work will focus on the analysis of the suitability of existing voltage quality indices for online monitoring and prediction, the development of new approaches to processing data obtained from power quality analyzers, and the design of analytical tools enabling early identification of the risk of voltage quality limit violations. The outcome of the research will be new methods for monitoring and evaluating voltage quality applicable to both transmission and distribution systems.

   The topic forms part of a broader research direction focused on the development of a new generation of tools for monitoring, diagnostics, and prediction of power quality in power systems, and is related to the ongoing research project TAČR TS01020151. The research will be conducted in cooperation with power system operators. The doctoral study will also include a research stay at a selected international research institution, for example at TU Dresden, Germany. Contact: drapela@vut.cz

   Supervisor: Drápela Jiří, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

4. Advanced Technologies for Measuring Artificial Light in Nighttime Environments

   The topic of the study follows the long-standing activities of the lighting technology research group at UEEN in the field of measuring and evaluating light pollution. The aim is to expand and put into practical use the developed technology for measuring and evaluating artificial light in the night environment. The student will develop the developed prototype, optimize the methodology of use, and will conduct more extensive data collection in the Czech Republic and possibly also outside the Czech Republic as part of study internships and practices. The workplace has cutting-edge measuring technology, which the student will have at his disposal and will cooperate with foreign institutions in the given area. One of the goals is to compare the results of individual systems and select future technology for monitoring artificial light in the night environment with regard to life forms as a whole.

   The study's goals include the introduction of small-scale production of functional samples and the deployment of the technology in a wider group of researchers within the Czech Republic, the interconnection of existing database systems, their expansion, and the analysis of large-scale data - ground, aerial and satellite measurements.

   We offer participation in grant research for the development of a network of monitoring stations for light pollution, testing of newly developed sensors, the possibility of developing a completely new prototype device for omnidirectional photometry with software implementation for calculating the integral characteristics of the light field and locating light sources, and determining the proportion of their contributions.

   The student will complete an internship at a selected foreign university that also deals with the topic. There are dozens of places to choose from in Europe and hundreds around the world. An example is the Aalto University in Espoo (Helsinki-Finland).

   Supervisor: Baxant Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

5. Autonomous System for Madium Network Reconfiguration affected by a Fault

   The dissertation topic is focused on improving the operational reliability of medium-voltage distribution networks through advanced automation and control principles. The main objective is to design and develop the concept of an intelligent system capable of rapid faulted-section identification, automatic isolation of the faulted section from the rest of the network, and subsequent restoration of power supply to the unaffected parts of the network in the shortest possible time. The research will focus on the principles of so-called self-healing systems, which contribute to reducing the impact of faults on end customers and to improving distribution reliability indices.

   The work will include an analysis of available measurement data, monitoring devices, and controllable disconnectors in the network, as well as an assessment of different levels of autonomy of the proposed solution — ranging from dispatcher-assisted decision-support systems to highly automated or fully autonomous approaches. An important aspect of the research will also be the design of a robust concept capable of responding not only to individual fault events, but also to more complex and dynamic situations, such as multiple simultaneous faults or faults occurring in close temporal sequence, which are typical of emergency or severe weather-related contingency conditions.

   Supervisor: Topolánek David, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

6. Communication-based protection systems

   Over the past two decades, the field of electricity transmission and distribution has undergone a fundamental transformation, and it is expected that even the long-established, proven, and reliable methods of protecting distribution networks will need to be modified or adapted to the new conditions. The main reason is the rapid growth in electricity generation from renewable sources, which is causing a reduction in short-circuit currents, rapid transient phenomena during faults due to the lack of mechanical inertia in the sources, and changes in the power flow into the fault due to the decentralized distribution of sources in the grid.

   At the same time, however, this also opens up opportunities for new approaches to solving power system protection problems that were previously impossible to implement in practice. Modern computing systems today provide significantly higher computing power, and communication infrastructure enables faster and more reliable data transmission.

   The topic of the dissertation focuses on research into new and advanced protection functions that utilize high computing power and, in particular, fast and reliable communication between individual system components. In combination with modern communication protocols such as IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-104, or IEEE C37.118, it is possible to design new architectures for protection and monitoring systems.

   The use of modern communication enables the implementation of both centralized protection systems, which can operate with transmitted sampled voltage and current values via IEC 61850 Sampled Values, and systems utilizing synchrophasor measurements transmitted according to the IEEE C37.118 standard. At the same time, decentralized protection systems can also be considered, in which individual protection terminals cooperate via horizontal communication and share information with each other even over greater distances.

   The aim of this work will be to design, implement, and experimentally validate functional applications for the protection and monitoring of future power grids. These applications will utilize advanced protection algorithms and may also include entirely new functionalities designed for protection, monitoring, and, where applicable, control and optimization of power system operations.

   The research will draw upon knowledge in the fields of electrical power engineering, computer networks, the design and implementation of real-time applications, and the design of user interfaces for the effective analysis and presentation of measured data.

   The doctoral program includes an internship at a research institution abroad.

   Supervisor: Orságová Jaroslava, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

7. Coordinated Multi-Layer Reactive Power Management under Evolving Power System Conditions

   Reactive power management in power systems has traditionally relied on a hierarchical and largely centralized approach, based on reactive power minimization at lower voltage levels and control by large synchronous generators at transmission levels. This paradigm has been effective under predominantly inductive system conditions and centralized generation structures. However, ongoing transformations of power systems—characterized by increasing penetration of distributed generation, converter-based technologies, active demand, and extensive cabling of networks—are fundamentally altering reactive power behavior and availability. These changes lead to a progressive shift towards capacitive characteristics in distribution networks, increased occurrence of extreme operating conditions (e.g., network unloading), and a reduction in reactive power control capability at transmission levels due to the displacement of conventional generation. At the same time, significant reactive power potential is emerging in distributed resources, converter-based demand, and industrial installations, which is currently only partially utilized and poorly coordinated.

   The dissertation focuses on the development of a coordinated, multi-layer framework for reactive power management that integrates structural settings (e.g., device-level power factor behavior), distributed flexibility (e.g., distributed generation and demand-side resources), and system-level control (e.g., network compensation devices and control schemes). Particular attention is given to the coordination between transmission and distribution systems, including the definition of roles, control strategies, and allocation principles.

   The objective is to propose methodologies for effective utilization and coordination of reactive power resources under evolving system conditions, including the formulation of planning approaches, control concepts, and potential regulatory and market implications. The expected contribution lies in enabling a transition from the traditional single-layer approach to a coordinated architecture capable of maintaining voltage stability and operational reliability in future power systems.

   The topic is part of a broader research direction focused on reactive power management in modern power systems and builds upon ongoing research and development of ancillary services provided by large active front-end (AFE) converters. The research will be carried out in close cooperation with power system operators. The doctoral study is also expected to include a research stay at a selected international institution, for example at the University of Campania, Italy. Contact: drapela@vut.cz.

   Supervisor: Drápela Jiří, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

8. Decentralized energy communities: Technology and implementation in the Czech Republic

   Community energy is an innovative approach to energy production, distribution and consumption, focused on involving local communities in the energy market. This concept uses decentralized energy sources, such as photovoltaic systems, small wind farms and battery storage, to ensure energy self-sufficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Key challenges are the technological integration of smart grids and demand management systems and the legislative environment. In the Czech context, community energy offers the potential to strengthen the energy independence of municipalities, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and involve citizens in the transition to more sustainable energy systems. The work will focus on the analysis of the concept, the design of technological solutions and the simulation of a pilot project in the context of the Czech Republic. The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university (Tampere University is pre-negotiated). Objectives of the work: - Community energy concept analysis. - Analysis of current technologies used in community energy, including decentralized energy sources. - Analyze the possibilities of managing and optimizing energy flows in communities, for example using consumption management systems, IoT and smart grids. - Develop a conceptual design of a model energy community for a specific location in the Czech Republic. - Implement a simulation of the operation of the model community, including optimization of energy flows.

   Supervisor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

9. Design and development of alternative partial discharge meters and indicators for high voltage equipment

   - Carry out an analysis and search of current principles and alternative solution of partial discharge measurement. 

   - Find suitable solutions or a combination of sensors on the basis of sensitivity measurement, determination of the nature of the fault, detection of the fault location and complexity of the solution.

   - Implement own design and laboratory verification of functionality and range of parameters in shielded cells.

   - Implement own, especially alternative principles of partial discharges measurement to indicators and fault meters in HV equipment.

   Supervisor: Krbal Michal, Ing., Ph.D.

10. Ensuring the stability of supply and power quality from integrated photovoltaic systems in the EU power system with a focus on the Czech Republic.

    The integration of photovoltaic (PV) sources into the EU power system is a key part of the energy transition towards sustainable and renewable sources. Generation modules (VM) are subject to specific standards and regulations, such as EN 50549 and NC RfG, which define their technical requirements and interaction with the grid. The main challenges in their integration include supply stability and power quality, which are influenced by voltage and frequency fluctuations, harmonic distortion, rapid changes in load and generation, and interactions with battery systems and external protections. The objective of this dissertation is to analyze and optimize the stability of supply and power quality in integrated photovoltaic systems, focusing on VM categories A1, A2, and B1 (up to 1 MW) within the EU power system, with a specific emphasis on the conditions in the Czech Republic. The research will focus on mathematical simulations, laboratory tests, and operational measurements to evaluate the impact of individual components, including external grid protections, battery systems, and control units. A crucial aspect will be the validation of component compliance with standards and regulations and the design of measures to improve supply stability and power quality. The results of this research will provide recommendations for optimizing the integration of PV sources into the distribution network and ensuring their reliable operation.

    Approach to problem-solving:

    • Mathematical simulations of PV integration and its impact on the grid.
    • Experimental measurements in a specialized laboratory facility.
    • Testing the compliance of VM A1-B1 components.
    • Validation of external grid protections and control units for PV systems.
    • Assessing the impact of battery systems on mitigating instabilities and managing power quality.
    • Comparison of theoretical simulations with practical measurements.
    • Evaluating the effect of individual components on grid stability.
    • Optimization of parameters and control algorithms for VM A1-B1.
    • Identification of critical issues and recommendations for PV source integration.

    The PhD candidate is expected to participate in research projects in this field (Eco&Store). As part of the doctoral studies, a research internship at a foreign research institution is planned (expected universities: TalTech/Tampere).

    Supervisor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

11. Integrated Glare Metric for Various Lighting Applications

    Glare is a negative state of human vision that causes not only unpleasant feeling but also have negative influence on the performance of human vision system. For the glare evaluation there are many equations that are always used for specific application. For interior lighting systems it is used metric UGR. For glare evaluation caused by daylight from windows it is used metric DGP, DGI etc. However, there are disadvantages of these metrics. They are adapted for specific type of lighting system (e.g. offices, sport grounds, street lighting etc.) and specified for typical luminaires (e.g. luminaires with fluorescent lamps and opal diffusor, daylight windows etc.) However, they are all based on empirical data and therefore not on the physiological and psychological model. From this reason it is not possible to use these metrics to new aplications. This problem occurs especially in the current situation, where LED technologies started to dominate the market. The LEDs radiate from the very small surface and with the specific spectrum. The task of this thesis is to partially find answer to question: “What is the physiological and psychological mechanism that is responsible for unpleasant feelings caused by higher luminance”. On the basis of this mechanism the model of discomfort glare caused by high contrasts should be carried out. This model should be generalized and used in lighting systems. This topic is highly supported by international commission for illumination CIE and it is classed within the 10 strategic research goals in lighting technology.

    Supervisor: Škoda Jan, Ing., Ph.D.

12. Integration of storage systems into the concept of electricity system support

    With the change in the energy mix concept and the increase in the share of stochastic sources (wind and photovoltaic plants), the concept of stability of the supply of electricity and its quality is closely connected. The topic is focused on the possibilities of accumulating electrical energy produced from renewable sources using modern technologies, with a focus on chemical accumulation and the use of pumped water power plants. The output of the work will be a proposal for measures in the energy system, which will solve the time disproportion between the supply and withdrawal of electricity from renewable sources and a proposal for a conceptual-technical solution for a selected part of the system in the Czech Republic. The solution is combined with modeling on a PC and experimental measurement on a functional model. The issue will be resolved in cooperation with the relevant CEZ division. It is assumed that the doctoral student will be involved in solving research projects in this area (Eco&Store). Part of the doctoral studies will be an internship at a foreign research institution (the TalTech university is pre-negotiated).

    Supervisor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

13. Mathematical model of contact material erosion in power switching devices

    A set of measurements with various contact pairs will be carried out in order to obtain necessary input data for creation of appropriate mathematical model of contact erosion. Dependence of contact erosion rate on parameters of switching circuit (current, voltage, power factor) for various operational states (rated operational power, overload, short circuits) will be acquired. Within the frame of Ph.D. theses, methodology of contact erosion assessment will be proposed. In the end, the mathematical model will be verified with real behavior of device contact systems. The results of research will be continuously presented in relevant scientific conferences (e.g. Symposium on Physics of Switching Arc, etc.) and in the form of articles in pertinent journals indexed in Scopus or Web of Science. As a part of the study, internship in the selected foreign institute will be undertaken.

    Supervisor: Aubrecht Vladimír, prof. RNDr., CSc.

14. Predictive Design and Analysis of Electromechanical Devices Using Statistics and Machine Learning

    The topic centers on research into the predictive design and analysis of electromechanical devices utilizing advanced statistical modeling and machine learning techniques. The objective is to optimize the design process for devices that necessitate computationally intensive, high-dimensional simulations of electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical phenomena—such as electric machines with specialized topologies, compact transformers, or devices featuring integrated magnetic gearing.

    The primary challenge is to develop surrogate models that facilitate the prediction of output parameters, such as efficiency, losses, short-circuit forces, and temperature profiles, based on a limited dataset from simulations or experiments. This research will concentrate on the creation, training, and validation of predictive models utilizing various techniques, including regression algorithms, neural networks, Kriging, and radial basis function (RBF) models. Emphasis will be placed on the accuracy, interpretability, and robustness of these models in real-world applications.

    The research will involve the development of workflows for multi-objective optimization and parametric studies of electromechanical systems. This includes designing adaptive strategies for selecting training data and controlling model accuracy. The proposed approach will be experimentally validated through real-world development tasks in collaboration with industrial and research partners internationally.

    The research findings will be applied to electrical machines with significant innovation potential, such as smart grid transformers and electric machines with an outer rotating rotor. The results will not only expedite the design process but also provide a deeper understanding of how individual design parameters affect the overall performance of these devices.

    The doctoral student is expected to complete a research sty at a foreign university, concentrating on the development of advanced electrical machines. Currently, suitable partners include JKU Linz in Austria and LUT University in Finland, both of which are members of the EULiST alliance. The student is expected to consistently publish research findings at international conferences and in Q1 and Q2 peer-reviewed journals.

    Funding is anticipated through participation in research projects related to the dissertation topic.

    Supervisor: Bárta Jan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

15. Probabilistic approach for optimization of distribution system operation

    The dissertation will be focused on research of a new probabilistic approach for evaluation of optimal operation of distribution network based on calculation and evaluation of fatal probability, probability of faults and continuity of supply. The methodology will respect already applied and new approaches optimized not only for national but also for international distribution networks operation conditions. The topic of the dissertation encompasses several areas that are focused on i.e. calculating of the earth fault levels, evaluating of fault duration and frequency, as well as area focused on calculation and analysis of the potential distribution on surface for evaluation of possible levels of touch and step voltages, transferred potential to low-voltage earthing systems and also assessment of the probability of human touch presence, fault ignition and touch/fault coincidence. The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university. At present, university of TU Graz (Austria) may be considered relevant, but the specific place will be updated during Ph.D. study period. The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university. At present, the TU Graz (Austria) and Aalto University (Finland) may be considered relevant, but the specific place will be updated during Ph.D. study period.

    Supervisor: Topolánek David, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

16. Resilience of Power Distribution Networks to Flood Hazards

    The topic focuses on research into methods for modelling, simulation, and quantitative assessment of the resilience of electrical power distribution networks to flood hazards. The aim of the work is to analyse the impact of different types of flooding (widespread inundation, local flooding, extreme rainfall events, and failure of protective structures) on the operational reliability of distribution networks, identify critical network components, and quantify the risk of outages, including their temporal progression and the restoration of supply.

    The research will utilise detailed topological and operational models of distribution networks, which will be integrated into a simulation environment linking power system and hydrological models. Flood scenarios will be described using spatial data (GIS, DTM/DEM) and flood characteristics, which will be mapped onto individual elements of the electrical infrastructure. Probabilistic and statistical methods will be employed to assess the vulnerability and failure of network components, including fragility curves and recovery models.

    Emphasis will be placed on computationally efficient formulations enabling large sets of scenarios to be analysed (e.g. Monte Carlo simulations and parametric studies) and allowing the effectiveness of preventive or adaptive measures to be compared. The resulting models will be validated using historical flood events as well as synthetic scenarios developed in cooperation with distribution network operators.

    The work will also include an analysis of cascading failure effects within the distribution network, particularly the propagation of outages resulting from interdependencies between network components and their reliance on other types of critical infrastructure.

    The doctoral topic is conducted within the research project “FloodCOSIM”, which focuses on modelling the impacts of floods on critical infrastructure. The doctoral programme will also include a research placement at a foreign research institution.

    Supervisor: Toman Petr, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

17. Smart Meter Data Utilisation for State Estimation and Advanced Analysis in Distribution Networks

    Motivation and Context

    Modern distribution systems are equipped with a increasing number of smart meters that collect operational data at large scale. This data represents a largely untapped potential for network monitoring and analysis. A fundamental limitation, however, is the insufficient metrological quality of conventional smart meters — these devices are primarily designed for billing purposes, and their measurements are subject to non-negligible uncertainty and systematic errors. Alongside smart meters, specialised power quality analysers with superior metrological characteristics are deployed in distribution systems, but their numbers remain limited for economic reasons.

    Objectives

    The main objective is to develop a methodological framework for processing heterogeneous data sources from distribution systems, with explicit consideration of their differing metrological quality. The core of the work will be the application of State Estimation (SE) methods, which allow measurements of varying accuracy to be integrated into a consistent representation of the network operating state. The framework will include systematic categorisation of measuring devices according to their metrological properties and analysis of uncertainty propagation into estimation results. Beyond SE, the work will focus on supporting algorithms utilising smart meter data — including phase identification, load profile analysis, and bad data detection.

    Scientific Contribution

    The work will be approached with emphasis on academic rigour, while assuming practical applicability of the outputs. The candidate will systematically address uncertainty analysis of the proposed algorithms — sensitivity of the methods to measurement uncertainties, the influence of systematic instrument errors, and the practical limits of achievable accuracy. The outcome will be a quantification of the most significant factors affecting the accuracy of analyses in a real distribution network, applicable both for formulating requirements for metering infrastructure (input for procurement specifications) and for interpreting results under conditions of economically constrained measurement quality.

    Collaboration and Expected Activities

    The work assumes collaboration with industrial partners developing software for the energy sector and with distribution system operators. Research stays at partner universities abroad, participation in specialised conferences (AMPS, ICHQP), and involvement in related research projects, including project TS01020006, are expected.

    Supervisor: Drápela Jiří, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

18. The voltage regulation in distribution networks with a high proportion of stochastic sources

    An increasing proportion of stochastic resources in networks affect the voltage stability during the day. Variable power delivery to the grid from these sources causes fluctuations in voltage variations during the daily diagram. Current devices used to the voltage regulation are unable to provide the required voltage level at all points of the network. The aim is to describe new possibilities and means for voltage regulation in distribution system and design concept of this regulation with regard to the current development of the resource base. It is assumed that the doctoral student will be involved in solving research projects in this area (Eco&Store). The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university (Tampere University is pre-negotiated).

    Supervisor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

19. Utilization of real-time simulation for advanced protection systems design

    New technologies of power system behavior research during transient phenomena open the area of advanced analysis focused to large protection systems operation during faults. The main aim of this dissertation is to extend possibilities of real time simulator RTDS about simultaneous tests in real time including real devices – hardware in the loop simulation. An internship at foreign university is included. Topic is include into research project “Control, protection and cost effective operation of distribution and industrial power systems” in frame of National Centre for Energy II.

    Supervisor: Toman Petr, prof. Ing., Ph.D.