Fully Funded PhD Positions in Electrical and Computer Engineering – University of New Hampshire (Spring/Fall 2026)

The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is now accepting applications for two fully funded PhD positions in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), starting in Spring or Fall 2026.

Hosted at the Energy Control and Optimization Laboratory (ECO Lab), under the supervision of Prof. Arezoo Hasankhani, these positions are designed for highly motivated students eager to work on cutting-edge research in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML), and smart grid technologies, with direct applications to renewable energy systems.

If you’re passionate about sustainable energy, smart technologies, and advanced computing, this opportunity is for you.

🏛️ About the University of New Hampshire (UNH)

The University of New Hampshire is an R1 Carnegie-classification research institution, meaning it is among the top universities in the U.S. for research activity.

• 🌊 UNH is known for its strong ocean engineering and energy research, located close to the Atlantic coast.
• 🔬 It collaborates with leading organizations like the National Atlantic Marine Energy Center (AMEC) to advance renewable energy.
• 🌍 With state-of-the-art facilities, UNH offers a supportive environment for interdisciplinary innovation in engineering, computing, and sustainability.

⚡ Research Areas for the PhD Positions

The two available PhD projects are focused on renewable energy systems, smart grids, and AI-driven cybersecurity.

🔐 Project 1: Cybersecurity for Wave Energy Converters (WECs)

This project applies AI/ML and cybersecurity methods to protect Wave Energy Converters (WECs) from cyberattacks.

• 🧑‍💻 Use AI/ML algorithms to detect anomalies and penetration attempts.
• 📡 Secure marine communications and control systems.
• 🔒 Study the cyber-physical impacts of attacks on renewable energy infrastructures.

⚙️ Project 2: Integration of WECs into Smart Microgrids

This project focuses on integrating WECs into smart microgrids using real-time simulation and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) systems.

• ⚡ Couple WEC-Sim with power system simulators.
• 🖥️ Create real-time digital replicas of renewable energy systems.
• 🔋 Develop inverters, converters, and power take-off (PTO) systems for microgrids.

Both projects aim to combine renewable energy innovation with cybersecurity and AI/ML technologies, making them highly impactful in today’s push toward sustainable energy.

🎓 Required Skills

Applicants should have:

• A Master’s degree in:
  • Electrical/Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Or a related field
• For Project 1 (Cybersecurity/AI/ML):
  • Strong background in cybersecurity, AI/ML, or related fields.
• For Project 2 (Smart Grids):
  • Background in smart grids, real-time simulation, or HIL systems.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB
  • Strong teamwork and communication abilities

💡 Preferred Skills

While not mandatory, applicants with the following will stand out:

• 🌊 Background in renewable energy systems, particularly wave energy converters.
• 🛠️ Familiarity with tools such as WEC-Sim and WECOpt.
• ⚡ Experience with BEM codes like NEMOH, Capytaine, WAMIT.
• 📑 Publications or relevant industry experience.

💰 Funding & Benefits

These PhD positions are fully funded, providing:

• ✅ Full tuition waiver
• ✅ Competitive stipend for living expenses
• ✅ Research and conference support
• ✅ Access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities
• ✅ Collaboration with leading renewable energy research centers in the U.S.

📅 Program Timeline

• Start Date: Spring 2026 or Fall 2026
• Duration: Typically 4–5 years
• Application Window: Open until positions are filled (apply early for best chance)

📝 Application Process

To apply, candidates should prepare a single PDF file including:

1. 📑 Cover Letter (1 page): Describe your background, research interests, and fit for Project 1 or 2.
2. 📄 Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. 📘 Sample Publication (if available)

📧 Submission

• Send applications via email to Prof. Arezoo Hasankhani at: arezoo.hasankhani@unh.edu
• Subject line: “Prospective PhD Student – Project 1” or “Prospective PhD Student – Project 2”

Applicants are encouraged to specify which project they are applying for.

If you require any help regarding your application, you can contact us at scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com

📌 Why Choose This PhD Program at UNH?

• 🏫 Study at a top-tier U.S. research institution (R1 classified)
• 🌍 Work on globally relevant challenges: renewable energy + cybersecurity + AI/ML
• ⚡ Gain hands-on experience with real-time simulations, smart grids, and marine energy systems
• 💼 Collaborate with AMEC and leading renewable energy labs
• 📚 Receive mentorship from an experienced faculty researcher

🔗 External Links

👉 University of New Hampshire – College of Engineering & Physical Sciences
👉 ECO Lab – Energy Control and Optimization Laboratory

📍 Internal Links

You may also want to explore:

• Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026–27
• Funded PhD & MS Research Positions – MSU 2026

❓ FAQs – UNH PhD Positions 2026

1️⃣ How many positions are available?

Two fully funded PhD positions in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

2️⃣ What are the research areas?

• Project 1: Cybersecurity for Wave Energy Converters (WECs)
• Project 2: Integration of WECs into Smart Microgrids

3️⃣ What are the eligibility requirements?

A Master’s degree in ECE, Computer Science, or related fields, with expertise in cybersecurity, AI/ML, smart grids, or real-time simulation.

4️⃣ Are international students eligible?

Yes ✅, the program is open to highly qualified students worldwide.

5️⃣ What is the funding type?

Fully funded: tuition, stipend, and research support.

🏆 Conclusion

The fully funded PhD positions at the University of New Hampshire (Spring/Fall 2026) offer an exceptional opportunity to work on AI-driven cybersecurity, renewable energy systems, and smart grid integration.

With access to cutting-edge labs, global collaborations, and expert supervision, successful candidates will play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable energy and cyber-physical resilience.

📅 Apply as soon as possible by sending your application to arezoo.hasankhani@unh.edu.

👉 Take the next step in your research career at one of the leading U.S. research institutions!

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🧑‍🎓 Author Bio

Mubeen Ali Niaz
Founder of ScholarshipsWithAakash.site
Mubeen curates top-ranked, fully funded scholarships for international students. With a strong background in global education and SEO, he helps students worldwide gain access to world-class research programs.

Stay tuned with Scholarships with Aakash — Where Your Academic Dreams Take Flight.

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