Postdoctoral Researcher Urban Building Energy Modelling

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Chair of Architecture and Building Systems (A/S) is an interdisciplinary team of researchers focusing on active and passive systems for building energy supply, climate control and occupant comfort. Our research aims to contribute knowledge to the realisation of a CO2-neutral built environment that efficiently consumes and produces energy while providing high user comfort. Our projects range from components to neighbourhoods, from design to operation.

The position is available from March 2023 or by agreement. The Project duration is 3 years (annual contracts).

Project background

The project SPEED2ZERO of the joint initiative of the ETH domain, aims to develop toolboxes, action plans and technology to enable a sustainable transformation to a net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) and biodiversity-positive Switzerland. Solutions will target immediate action conducive to halving GHG emissions by 2030, developing the required infrastructure, ensuring a resilient energy system, and securing biodiversity. In the context of this project, the Architecture and Building Systems Group (A/S) will research 4D urban archetypes (space and time), focusing on a life-cycle emission perspective. This includes novel material approaches investigated as part of this project, decentralised renewable energy generation and linking to larger-scale energy systems. After assessing the potential for representative entities of the Swiss building stock, the fast implementation of retrofit measures combined with materials innovations based on biomass and concrete will be secured via demonstrators in pilot buildings.

Job description

The objective of your work will be to gain knowledge and evaluate the GHG reduction potentials of innovative building materials across typical Swiss settlement types. Your work will be centred around building, expanding and analysing Swiss UBEM archetypes and representative buildings using the City Energy Analyst (CEA). This includes identifying the future trends in building properties, materials and building energy systems, developing the UBEMs that reflect the trends, and integrating the research outcome into the City Energy Analyst platform. Furthermore, you will expand the CEA to address lifecycle emissions from a material and temporal perspective. As part of the UBEM team at the chair, you will discuss and, if complementary, contribute to other ongoing research projects with your knowledge and experience.

Your profile

We are looking for highly motivated and self-organized individual with a PhD in engineering (with experience and a strong interest in the built environment/architecture) or in architecture (with experience and a strong interest in engineering/data science). You are required to have expertise and experience in building and urban energy modelling and simulation, preferably using the City Energy Analyst (CEA) or comparable tools. Experience in programming (Python, Matlab, etc.) or an interest to learn on the job is highly welcome. We require excellent communication skills in English, both verbally and written. Knowledge in German or French is welcome. You should be able to combine strong individual research with teamwork within the project. We explicitly encourage female candidates to apply. We offer a modern, dynamic, international, and multidisciplinary work environment, as well as a young and enthusiastic team that values teamwork.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

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Curious? So are we.

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

• motivational letter
• CV
• publications
• research work samples

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

Further information about the chair of Architecture and Building Systems can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Ms Valérie Gass by email [email protected] (no applications).

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.