Postdoctoral researcher (scientific collaborator) in future freight transport systems (80-100%) in Zürich

The Learning Lab - Future Transport Systems (L2-FTS) is a platform within the framework of the Swiss Competence Center for Energy Research - Efficient Technologies and Systems for Mobility (SCCER Mobility) and affiliated with the Aerothermochemistry and Combustion Systems Laboratory (LAV) at ETH Zurich. It aims to simulate different aspects of the Swiss mobility system and gain an understanding of the multitude and interrelation of relevant parameters necessary for creating a future transportation system with minimal greenhouse gas emissions.

Rail freight transport has a substantial potential for contributing to the decarbonization of Swiss freight transport. It is electrified and relies on renewable energy sources. However, new technological developments such as road electrification, digitalization and automation, as well as regulatory changes may threaten its competitiveness with implications for both business and policy. In this context, the L2-FTS is offering a full-time postdoctoral position to investigate the “Future Environmental Performance of Swiss Freight Transport: Impacts on Rail Cargo Competitiveness”, carried out in collaboration with SBB Cargo, a subsidiary of Swiss Federal Railways specializing in rail freight.

We are seeking a candidate who will support analyzing future developments in Swiss freight transport system. This will include the technical analysis of different transportation technologies and their associated techno-economic factors with a focus on quantitative methods. Scenario development and analysis will contribute to evaluating the potentials and environmental performance of different technologies and the relative competitiveness of rail and road freight transport modes. The results will be used to elaborate evidence-based recommendations for both SBB Cargo and policy makers. The position will involve a close collaboration with experts from SBB Cargo as well as working with other scientific groups within SCCER Mobility and LAV.

We look forward to receiving your online application including a max. two A4 pages motivation letter detailing your research interest(s) and experience(s), your CV and a recent publication from your PhD thesis (or an excerpt from your master's thesis). We would like to fill the position as soon as possible and it will remain open until then. Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.