The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore, about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether, PSI employs 2200 people.
For the Technology Assessment group in the Laboratory for Energy Systems Analysis we are looking for a
Scientist (Project position)on Multicriteria Decision Analysis for the Energy System
Your tasks
You will model, develop and apply state-of-the-art decision models to evaluate the resilience of the future energy pathways of Switzerland (as part of the SFOE SWEET-SURE project). The models will synergize with advanced Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methodological frameworks and efficient communication protocols for the interaction with real stakeholders. The developped frameworks should incorporate transparent modelling and technical procedures to address potential dependences between the evaluation criteria, as well as post-optimality algorithms to account for the robustness of the model and the achieved results. You are also required to have the proper expertise to develop satisfaction analysis models, in order to assess the citizens’ acceptability of wind power plants in their vicinity (as part of the H2020 Wimby project). Moreover, you will play a key role in the identification and multi-objective portfolio evaluation of policy measures for the promotion of advanced geothermal systems, for the needs of the Innosuisse AEGIS-CH flagship project. The selected researcher will also support the various activities of the research group and will publish the acquired results in peer-reviewed scientific journals, as well as the corresponding technical project reports.
Your profile
- PhD degree in Operational Research or equivalent domains of natural sciences and engineering
- Very good understanding of the energy system, with focus on the resilience and security
- Excellent knowledge and practice of MCDA methods, risk and uncertainty management
- Good experience in European and national projects, especially in the field of energy policy making
- Proficient in written and oral English
- Experience interacting with real stakeholders and decision makers
- Good communication and collaboration skills to work in a team
We offer
Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure.
This is a fixed-term position. The employment contract will (initially) be limited to 3 years.
For further information, please contact Dr Peter Burgherr, phone +41 56 310 26 49,
e-mail peter.burgherr@psi.ch.
Please submit your application online (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Scientist (Project position) (index no. 4501-03).
Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Adina Keller, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland