Post-Doctoral Researcher in Energy Systems Analysis

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Chair of Energy Systems Analysis (ESA), within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zurich, is looking for a highly motivated Post-Doctoral Researcher to work broadly in the area of energy systems analysis. The ESA group is headed by Prof. Dr Russell McKenna and generally focuses on the energy system analysis of low-carbon energy systems and technologies, by working at the intersection of engineering and economics to develop and apply energy system models to diverse energy systems and research questions. The Chair holder’s joint appointment as the Head of the Laboratory of Energy Systems Analysis at PSI means a strong collaboration with this group and regular presence is also required.

Project background

This position is linked to the SCENE project , a large, inter- and multidisciplinary project to establish a Centre of Excellence for Net Zero Energy Systems in Switzerland. Within this project, we intend to establish a "model lab" as an interactive and multi-purpose co-working space to facilitate data analytics, visualization and stakeholder interaction. The conceptualization and implementation of this model lab forms context for this Postdoc position.

Job description

Your primary responsibility will therefore be to design and establish such a model lab located at PSI in coordination with the project partners. Alongside and through this main task, you should carry out world-class research broadly within the Chair’s domain of interest and publish in top-tier international venues. As part of this responsibility, you will co-supervise and work closely with PhD students, undergraduate and master's students within the Chair. Opportunities for external collaboration with both academic and industry partners at other institutions will be plentiful, and promising collaborations with top external colleagues will be encouraged.

Furthermore, a strong involvement is expected in the coordination and management of various other research aspects of the group's activities and projects, potentially including:

• Helping to explore and define new research opportunities for the group
• Writing grant proposals and technical reports for funded projects
• Organisation of conferences and seminars within and beyond ETH
• Assisting in the coordination of collaborative research projects
• Participating in the evaluation and hiring of new group members
• Participation in teaching and outreach activities is optional but possible if desired

Your profile

• PhD degree in energy systems analysis or a closely-related field, with a strong publication track record in quantitative model-based analysis (PhD near to completion may be considered)
• Strong research background in at least one and ideally several: energy system integration, sector coupling, decentralized energy systems, multi-energy systems, resource assessment methods
• High motivation, ambition and enthusiasm about security research, an analytical mindset, attention to detail, self-driven, and ability to work independently and as a research team member
• Experience in data analytics, visualization, and interactive stakeholder engagement would be advantageous
• Strong interpersonal skills and a desire to develop advising skills and help foster the next generation of researchers
• Outstanding communication skills in English, both oral and written

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

You will receive an employment full-time contract and a competitive gross salary in accordance with ETH standards . Additionally, support for conference travel and research expenses will be available.

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae including educational history, full list of publications, awards, etc.
• Research statement of ~2 pages covering your interests, goals, and how they would relate to and fit in with the ESA Chair’s research domain and activities.
• Names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of at least three references, mentioning for each of them the professional relationship you have with them.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

For further information please contact Prof. Russell McKenna, [email protected]  (no applications) at the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.