Scientific Assistant / Scientific Assistantess

Energy Systems Analysis

The Chair of Energy Systems Analysis (ESA), within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering (D-MAVT) at ETH Zurich, is seeking a Scientific Assistant to support a research project focused on seasonal thermal energy storage technologies.

The ESA Chair operates at the intersection of engineering and economics, dedicating itself to the development and application of energy system models across diverse energy systems and research questions. Led by Prof. Dr. Russell McKenna, the ESA group emphasizes the optimization and assessment of complex systems and infrastructures, prioritizing environmentally and economically efficient design and operations. Additionally, the Energy and Environment Group at PSI combines interdisciplinary research on various energy technologies with modeling and analytical tools to aid decision-makers in addressing complex energy challenges.

Key Responsibilities

You will support the ESA Chair in this interdisciplinary research project, which involves:

• Conducting literature and data reviews for STES technologies and projects
• Data processing and analysis
• Performing techno-economic and environmental analysis
• Preparing presentations and project reports in both German and English
• Communicating and collaborating with project partners and stakeholders in German and English

Depending on your background, experience, and level of employment, there may be opportunities for model-based energy system analysis and scientific publications within the project. This position is part of an ongoing research initiative involving several municipalities in the Pfannenstiel region and is supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates with the following qualifications:

• MSc-level degree (or nearing completion) in a relevant subject, such as (energy) engineering, economics, or business engineering
• Strong motivation and interest in working within the sustainable energy sector
• Enthusiasm for engaging with local stakeholders at the municipal level
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in both German and English (with at least one language as a mother tongue)
• Experience in quantitative analysis, such as techno-economic analysis, environmental assessment, or energy system modeling is beneficial
• Some knowledge or background in seasonal thermal energy storage would be advantageous

Your Impact

Joining ETH Zurich means becoming part of an institution that not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change. You will:

• Work in a dynamic, diverse, and interdisciplinary research group with excellent research and administrative support
• Gain direct experience collaborating with various local stakeholders in an applied research project that has a significant impact
• Benefit from our commitment to creating a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• Enjoy numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports activities offered by the ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits

Note that both the contract level and duration are flexible and will be discussed with the suitable candidate.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For any questions regarding the position (no applications), please contact Prof. Russell McKenna via email at rmckenna@ethz.ch.