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 contribute to a research project focused on seasonal thermal energy storage technologies.

The ESA Chair operates at the intersection of engineering and economics, developing and applying energy system models to address a variety of energy challenges. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Russell McKenna, the ESA group emphasizes the optimization and evaluation of complex systems and infrastructures, prioritizing environmentally and economically efficient designs and operations. Additionally, the Laboratory for Energy Systems Analysis (LEA) at PSI conducts interdisciplinary research on diverse energy technologies alongside modeling and analysis tools to assist decision-makers in addressing intricate energy issues.

Your Responsibilities

As a member of the ESA Chair, you will engage in the following tasks:

• Conduct literature and data reviews for seasonal thermal energy storage (STES) technologies and projects
• Perform data processing and analysis
• Execute techno-economic and environmental analyses
• Prepare presentations and project reports in both German and English
• Communicate and collaborate with project partners and stakeholders in German and English

There is potential for model-based energy system analysis and scientific publications depending on your background, experience, and level of employment. This role is related to an ongoing research project with several municipalities in the Pfannenstiel region, supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Your Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who possess the following qualifications:

• MSc-level degree (or nearing completion) in a relevant field, such as (energy) engineering, economics, business engineering, etc.
• A strong motivation and interest in sustainable energy
• A desire to engage with local stakeholders at the municipal level
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in both German and English (proficiency in at least one language as a mother tongue)
• Experience in quantitative analysis, such as techno-economic analysis, environmental assessment, or energy system modeling, is advantageous
• Some knowledge or background in seasonal thermal energy storage would be beneficial

Why Join Us?

By joining ETH Zurich, you will have the opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful impact on society while advancing your professional development
• Work within a dynamic, diverse, and interdisciplinary research group, receiving excellent research and administrative support
• Gain direct experience collaborating with various local stakeholders on impactful applied research projects
• Be part of our commitment to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• Enjoy numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a wide range of sports activities offered by the ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits

Contract level and duration are flexible and can be discussed with the suitable candidate.

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

Contact Information

If you have questions regarding the position (please, no applications), please reach out via email to Prof. Russell McKenna at rmckenna@ethz.ch.