2 PhD Candidates - Assessing Policies for Net Zero Technologies

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Group for Sustainability and Technology (SusTec) at ETH Zurich’s Department of Management, Technology, and Economics investigates organizational, technological, and institutional change in different sectors focusing on energy, decarbonization, and the circular economy. We approach our research from two complementary perspectives: at the system level, examining how public policy shapes innovation and the diffusion of sustainable technologies; and at the firm level, exploring corporate strategies and organizational dynamics.

We are expanding our research on public policies for clean fuels and invite applications for:

2 PhD candidates in Policies for Net Zero Technologies (100%)

Project background

The two PhD projects investigate policies to speed up the development of supply chains for net zero technologies, like renewable hydrogen. The research will cover national, regional, and global scales and assess policy outcomes such as technology diffusion, job creation, and security of energy supply.

The first PhD project will evaluate various pathways for renewable hydrogen supply chains in Switzerland, to inform future energy policies.

The second PhD project will develop and apply a novel modeling framework, combining agent-based modeling with energy system modeling to simulate supply chains for net zero technologies.

Job description

We expect your research to be scientifically rigorous and relevant to policymakers and managers. You will collaborate closely with other researchers at our chair and interact with policymakers, managers, and other stakeholders. As an integral part of your work, you will publish your results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and outreach outlets. You will also supervise master students and support the group’s teaching.

Your work will contribute to advancing knowledge in policies for net zero technologies, with a focus on both academic and real-world impact.

Profile

The ideal candidate must:

• Hold an M.Sc. or equivalent degree in engineering (e.g., chemical engineering, energy engineering) or a closely related discipline,
• Have an excellent academic record,
• Have strong analytical skills at an abstract and applied level,
• Be passionate about sustainability, energy, and public policy,
• Be interested in current political and societal discussions,
• Be able to work independently, manage multiple tasks and deadlines,
• Be a team player with strong communication skills,
• Have basic experience with coding and modeling (e.g., with Python),
• Be fluent in spoken and written English.

Not required but a plus to:

• Have work experience in a related area,
• Have prior scientific publications in a related area,
• Be fluent in German,
• Be knowledgeable of energy technologies, energy transition, and the energy industry.

Workplace

We offer

We offer an entrepreneurial research environment in a dynamic team at a world-class academic institution. We also offer national and international development opportunities through collaborations with top academic, industrial, and policy partners. Further, you will have the option to collaborate closely with sus.lab , SusTec’s think-and-do tank, on applied projects with companies and policymakers.

The two positions have different starting dates:

• First position: as soon as possible (October 2024),
• Second position: early 2025 (negotiable between January and March 2025).

Your day-to-day supervisor will be Dr. Alejandro Nuñez-Jimenez , with Prof. Volker Hoffmann as the leader of the research group.

You will be hired as a full-time researcher for the entire duration of the project. The annual salary is very competitive (see ETH Zurich regulations ). These positions are based in Zurich, Switzerland. Remote work from abroad is impossible due to legal constraints.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

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.

Curious? So are we.

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

• CV
• Letter of motivation (mention your research interests, preferred project, and earliest starting date possible)
• Contact details of two referees
• BSc and MSc transcripts
• Example of written work (e.g., your master’s thesis)

Submit your application through this online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

For additional information, visit our website or contact Dr. Alejandro Nuñez-Jimenez ( anunez-jimenezethz.ch , no applications).

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until it is filled. For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich applies.

Apply online now

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.