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Scientific assistant on seasonal thermal energy storage technologies

Immigration Policy Lab

Immigration Policy Lab

Zürich, Switzerland
Posted on Jan 31, 2026

Scientific assistant on seasonal thermal energy storage technologies

40%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Chair of Energy Systems Analysis (ESA), within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering (D-MAVT) at ETH Zurich, is looking for a Scientific Assistant to support a research project of the Chair on seasonal thermal energy storage technologies.

The ESA Chair is at the intersection of engineering and economics and involves developing and applying energy system models to diverse energy systems and research questions. The ESA group is headed by Prof. Dr. Russell McKenna and generally focuses on the optimization and assessment of complex systems and infrastructures with an emphasis on environmentally and economically efficient design and operations. In addition, LEA at PSI combines interdisciplinary research on diverse energy technologies with modeling and analysis tools to support decision-makers in tackling complex energy challenges.

Job description

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

  • Literature and data reviews for STES technologies and projects
  • Data processing and analysis
  • Techno-economic and environmental analysis
  • Preparing presentations and project reports in German and English
  • Communicating and working with project partners and stakeholders in German and English

Some scope for model-based energy system analysis and scientific publications is given by the project, depending on the background and experience of the candidate and level of employment. The position is related to an ongoing research project with several municipalities in the Pfannenstiel region, supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Profile

You should bring the following qualifications:

  • MSc-level degree (or soon to obtaining) in relevant subject, e.g. (energy) engineering, economics, business engineering, etc.
  • Motivation and interest to work in the sustainable energy field.
  • Motivation and interest to work with local stakeholders at the municiple level.
  • Excellent written and oral communication in German and English (at least one of these as mother tongue).
  • Experience in quanitative analysis, e.g. techno-economic analysis, environmental assessment, energy system modelling, is beneficial.
  • Some knowledge/background in seasonal thermal energy storage would be beneficial.

Workplace

Workplace




We offer

  • Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
  • Work in a dynamic, diverse and interdisciplinary research group with excellent research and administrative support.
  • Gain direct experience of working with diverse local stakeholders in an applied research project with impact.
  • We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
  • You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits
  • Note that the contract level and duration are both flexible to be agreed with the suitable candidate.
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application including the following documents:

  • Motivation letter
  • CV
  • Transcripts
  • References

Please note that we only accept applications that are submitted through our online application portal. We will not consider applications sent via email or postal services. Applications assessment will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

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

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.