Scientist / PostDoc position to work on the integration of CCUS processes to energy system models

Our passion lies in materials science and technology, and at the Urban Energy Systems Laboratory (UESL), we develop strategies and methods to support the creation of decarbonized, resilient, and equitable energy systems. Empa leads the SWEET ACHIEVE consortium addressing Hard-To-Abate Emissions to Reach the Net-Zero Target of Switzerland. Within the ACHIEVE consortium, we lead the investigation of the "Rheintal" case study, based on the Netto-Null Rheintal Projekt.

Your tasks

• Build and investigate a sector coupled energy system model in collaboration with the ACHIEVE consortium and partners from the Rheintal project
• Integrate CCUS and industrial processes into the energy system models
• Assess the energy system towards different metrics and optimization objectives such as cost and CO2 emissions
• Coordinate the developments with the project manager
• Present the results internally and externally, * A stimulating, and interdisciplinary research environment with excellent infrastructure and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• An exiting project tackling critical questions of the energy transition in a changing geopolitical context
• The possibility of starting immediately

We foster a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

We seek a highly motivated and dedicated scientist or experienced professional with a PhD in mechanical or chemical engineering, or an equivalent qualification in a related field. The ideal candidate possesses profound interdisciplinary knowledge of the ongoing energy transition, with specific expertise in optimization methods and energy system modeling. Key qualifications include:

• Experience in energy system modeling and optimization
• Familiarity with optimization methods, such as Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP)
• A strong track record of relevant publications
• Excellent English skills

Ideally, the candidate also:

• Has worked with CCUS and industrial processes
• Has programming experience in Python and Pyomo

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.