The focus of this postdoctoral position lies in demonstrating the real-time optimization of community PV systems, e-mobility, and edge data center integration at the Swiss pilot site hosted at Empa's NEST demonstrator. The role involves coordinating the deployment and validation of advanced planning and energy management solutions that enhance self-consumption by intelligently controlling PV systems, batteries, electric vehicle charging, heat pumps, and thermal storage. Beyond the technical implementation, the candidate will contribute to the development of regulatory frameworks, business models, and social analyses that enable broader adoption of community PV. This interdisciplinary position bridges engineering, policy, and user-centric perspectives, and includes stakeholder engagement through workshops and training activities. The candidate is expected to translate research ideas into practical solutions in close collaboration with our interdisciplinary team and external academic and industry partners. Responsibilities also include supporting master's and PhD students, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and participating in international conferences.

You are a highly motivated and dedicated candidate with a PhD in Engineering, Energy Systems, or a related field. You bring interdisciplinary expertise in energy transitions, with a solid understanding of photovoltaics, renewable energy integration, multi-energy systems, and energy conversion and storage technologies. You have strong skills in programming, modelling, and data analysis. Experience in formulating and solving mathematical optimization problems, as well as working on real-world demonstrators, is an asset. Proficiency in English is required; good comprehension and oral communication skills in German are desirable.

We offer a multifaceted and challenging position in a modern research environment with excellent infrastructure. The position is offered initally for two years, with possibility of extension. The ideal starting date is October 2025, or upon mutual agreement.

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

Stv. Leiterin Human Resources / Dep. Head Human Resources

Group Leader Buildings & Cities
Urban Energy Systems