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, developing and applying energy system models to a variety of energy systems and research questions. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Russell McKenna, the ESA group prioritizes the optimization and assessment of complex systems and infrastructures with an emphasis on environmentally and economically efficient design and operations. Additionally, the LEA at PSI integrates interdisciplinary research on diverse energy technologies with modeling and analysis tools, aiding decision-makers in addressing complex energy challenges.

Responsibilities

As a Scientific Assistant, you will contribute to this interdisciplinary research project, taking on the following tasks:

• Conducting literature and data reviews for STES technologies and projects
• Processing and analyzing data
• 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
• Exploring opportunities for model-based energy system analysis and scientific publications, depending on your background and experience

This position is associated with a current research initiative involving several municipalities in the Pfannenstiel region, supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates with the following qualifications:

• MSc-level degree (or close to obtaining) in a relevant field, such as (energy) engineering, economics, business engineering, etc.
• A strong motivation and interest in sustainable energy
• A desire to work with local stakeholders at the municipal level
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in German and English (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

Your Impactful Job

Join ETH Zurich, an institution that not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to creating positive change in society. You will have the opportunity to:

• Work within a dynamic, diverse, and interdisciplinary research team with outstanding research and administrative support
• Gain hands-on experience collaborating with various local stakeholders in an impactful applied research project
• Be part of a university committed to sustainability and climate neutrality
• Enjoy numerous benefits including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports activities through ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits

Application Process

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online using the form below. We look forward to receiving your application, which should include the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Transcripts
• References

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. If you have any questions regarding the position (no applications), feel free to reach out to Prof. Russell McKenna at rmckenna@ethz.ch.