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. Led by Prof. Dr. Russell McKenna, the ESA group concentrates on the optimization and assessment of complex systems and infrastructures, emphasizing environmentally and economically efficient design and operations. Additionally, the Laboratory for Energy Storage at PSI integrates interdisciplinary research on diverse energy technologies with modeling and analytical tools to assist decision-makers in addressing complex energy challenges.

Key Responsibilities

You will support the ESA Chair in this interdisciplinary research project, which includes the following tasks:

• Conducting literature and data reviews for seasonal thermal energy storage technologies and projects
• Processing and analyzing data
• Performing techno-economic and environmental analyses
• Preparing presentations and project reports in both German and English
• Communicating and collaborating with project partners and stakeholders in German and English

The project allows some scope for model-based energy system analysis and scientific publications, depending on the candidate's background, experience, and level of employment. The position is associated with an ongoing research project involving multiple municipalities in the Pfannenstiel region, supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Qualifications

Successful candidates should have the following qualifications:

• MSc-level degree (or imminent completion) in a relevant subject, such as energy engineering, economics, business engineering, etc.
• A strong motivation and interest in sustainable energy initiatives.
• Willingness to engage with local stakeholders at the municipal level.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in both German and English (with at least one as a native language).
• 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 also be beneficial.

Your Job with Impact

Join ETH Zurich and contribute to meaningful societal change while advancing your professional development. Highlights of the position include:

• Working within a dynamic, diverse, and interdisciplinary research group with robust research and administrative support.
• Gaining direct experience collaborating with various local stakeholders in an impactful applied research project.
• An active commitment to fostering a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• Access to numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports programs offered by ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

Both the contract level and duration are flexible and will be agreed upon with the suitable candidate.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

Questions regarding the position (no applications) should be directed via email to Prof. Russell McKenna at rmckenna@ethz.ch.