Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Researcher on Hybrid AI-Optimization Modelling

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Energy Science Center (ESC) at ETH Zurich is an interdepartmental competence center that facilitates energy research and teaching activities across various fields and departments, while promoting outreach and public visibility of energy research at ETH Zurich. We are seeking a highly qualified and motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team, working at the forefront of hybrid AI-optimization modelling. This position focuses on the design of AI-based surrogates for large-scale energy system models and will be integrated into the activities of the Nexus-e group, closely linked to the ETH AI Center and the Reliability and Risk Engineering Lab.

Job Description

• Collaborate with other researchers to develop high-fidelity emulators for large-scale energy system optimization models.
• Lead the design and implementation of innovative methods, which may include Kriging surrogate, Polynomial Chaos Expansion (PCE), and Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs).
• Contribute to the strategic direction of research.
• Publish high-impact research in leading journals and present findings at international conferences on energy systems and machine learning.
• Collaborate with industry partners to tackle challenges of practical relevance.

Profile

Interested candidates should meet the following requirements to be eligible for the position:

• A PhD or Doctoral degree in Energy Systems, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a field focused on the intersection of Machine Learning and Optimization.
• Proven expertise in surrogate modelling, specifically in designing neural architectures for emulating constrained optimization problems.
• Advanced programming skills in Python, with deep experience in libraries such as PyTorch, Pyomo, and the broader scientific stack (Xarray, Pandas). Knowledge of MATLAB is desired but not a requirement.
• A strong track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals involving advanced emulation or physics-aware AI.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary and multicultural research teams, bridging the gap between data science and energy engineering.
• Proficiency in English is required.

Workplace

Join a young, dynamic, and interdisciplinary research team addressing energy system challenges at one of the world's leading universities, centrally located in Zurich.

We Offer

• An attractive research position in high-impact projects with competitive salaries paid according to ETH standards.
• Numerous benefits and flexible, family-friendly working conditions.
• The opportunity to become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive change in society.

The initial contract duration is planned for one year, with the possibility of extension based on continued funding and successful performance.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity and value diversity while nurturing a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us as we work consistently towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For further information, please contact Dr. Jonas Savelsberg, Head of the Nexus-e group via e-mail (jonas.savelsberg@esc.ethz.ch). More information about the Energy Science Center is available on our website.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the 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 inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections worldwide, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.