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, concentrating on the development and application of energy system models across diverse energy systems and pressing research questions. Led by Prof. Dr. Russell McKenna, the ESA group emphasizes the optimization and assessment of intricate systems and infrastructures, aiming for environmentally and economically efficient design and operations. Moreover, the LEA at PSI engages in interdisciplinary research on various energy technologies, utilizing modeling and analytical tools to assist decision-makers in addressing complex energy challenges.

Your Responsibilities

As a Scientific Assistant, you will support the ESA Chair in this interdisciplinary research project, which entails the following tasks:

• Conducting literature and data reviews for seasonal thermal energy storage (STES) technologies and projects.
• Processing and analyzing data.
• Executing 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.

Depending on your background, experience, and level of employment, there is some scope for model-based energy system analysis and scientific publications. This role is linked to an ongoing research project involving several municipalities in the Pfannenstiel region, supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• MSc-level degree (or close to completion) in a relevant subject such as (energy) engineering, economics, or business engineering.
• A strong motivation and keen interest in the field of sustainable energy.
• A passion for working with local stakeholders at the municipal level.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both German and English (with at least one being a native language).
• Experience in quantitative analysis, including techno-economic analysis, environmental assessment, and energy system modeling is advantageous.
• Familiarity with seasonal thermal energy storage concepts would be a plus.

What We Offer

Join ETH Zurich and contribute to positive societal change while advancing your professional development. You can expect:

• Employment in a dynamic, diverse, and interdisciplinary research group with outstanding research and administrative support.
• Hands-on experience working with various local stakeholders in an impactful applied research project.
• A strong commitment to sustainability and a climate-neutral university.
• A range of benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a variety of sports activities through ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

Please note that the contract level and duration are flexible and will be agreed upon with the suitable candidate.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

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