Postdoctoral Researcher: “Numerical simulations of urban heat island mitigation measures” in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The Chair of Building Physics at ETH Zurich is looking for a highly skilled and motivated candidate that will investigate the occurrence of local hotspots in cities and the impact of various mitigation measures for urban heat island (UHI) effect.

The presence of UHI can dramatically increase air temperature locally, which results in severe consequences on the thermal comfort of pedestrians and the health of inhabitants. At the same time, urban densification exacerbates the impact of UHI. A sustainable solution for future requires detailed urban planning, which includes a combination of cool surfaces with high albedo and/or evaporative cooling, shadowing, use of vegetation and which utilizes urban ventilation, taking advantage of cold air streams.

The aims of the research include quantifying the contribution of various UHI mitigation measures, application of this knowledge in real case scenarios and eventually develop new solutions. The project involves computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, where a coupled approach will be developed between urban microclimate simulations with OpenFOAM and mesoscale meteorological models (WRF, COSMO). This will then be applied to case studies of neighborhoods in Zurich, e.g. public areas, streets, open squares.

You should be a responsible and communicative scientist with a doctoral degree in mechanical or building/civil engineering, physics, materials science or similar field. Experience in numerical methods (CFD), preferably in urban wind flow applications, and knowledge of heat and mass transport in urban environment is requested. An interest in implementation and development of numerical models for urban climate is highly advantageous. You should at least be proficient in C++ and/or Fortran as well as in a data analysis language like Python or R. The ability to work with geospatial datasets and GIS applications is advantageous. You should be proficient in English.

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.