Descripción
# Postdoc position: Modeling the Circular Economy #
#### 100%, Zurich, fixed-term ####
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The **Energy and Process Systems Engineering (EPSE) Group** at ETH Zürich is looking for a Postdoc to build a roadmap to net-zero for the chemical & pharmaceutical industry and to model the potential for a circular economy in Swiss hard-to-abate sectors. The EPSE group at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Dr. André Bardow, is dedicated to advancing sustainable energy and chemical process systems. Our research spans from the molecular level to the scale of systems. We develop methods to advance sustainable energy and chemical process systems from the molecular to the scale of the systems. Our work combines process analysis and system modeling to design optimal new technologies and transition pathways simultaneously. To holistically evaluate the environmental impacts of processes and energy systems, we develop predictive methods for Life Cycle Assessment. Our technological focus is thermal energy systems, sustainable carbon feedstock, and CO2 capture, utilization, and storage.
## Project background ##
To achieve Switzerland-s net-zero climate target by 2050, greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced as much as possible across all sectors. However, in certain industries, such as chemical production, cement production, and waste incineration, some emissions are difficult to avoid. These residual emissions need to be managed either by capturing them at the source and storing them safely (CO2 capture and storage, CCS) or by negative emission technologies (NETs). These two solutions are expensive leading Switzerland to explore for alternatives to abate these emissions.
The SWEET ACHIEVE consortium has been selected to study these unavoidable emissions in Switzerland. One of its goals is to explore synergies between hard-to-abate sectors that could reduce the need for CCS and NETs.
In particular, our project focuses on two main objectives: First, we will develop a net-zero roadmap for the Swiss chemical and pharmaceutical industry, which is currently missing. Second, we will identify and analyze synergies between the building, chemical/pharmaceutical, recycling, and waste-to-energy sectors that could lower emissions and reduce the reliance on CCS and NETs in Switzerland-s transition. The project will apply system modeling, techno-economic assessment, and environmental analysis to study hard-to-abate sectors.
## Job description ##
Your primary responsibility will be to develop a system model of the chemical and pharmaceutical industry in Switzerland and to design optimal pathways for its transition to net zero. This analysis will include assessing both the costs and environmental impacts of different decarbonization options. You will also expand the model to incorporate the waste-to-energy and recycling sectors.
In this role, you will actively engage with industry partners to integrate their perspectives on the strengths and limitations of decarbonization options and to gather practical insights. In addition, you will lead our group-s contributions to the SWEET ACHIEVE consortium, where you will take responsibility for two work package leader roles.
Your role will also involve mentoring and co-supervising student projects and theses. Additionally, you will engage in various group and institute duties and activities. As an integral part of your work, you will publish your results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at international conferences.
## Profile ##
We are looking for a proactive and motivated candidate who meets the requirements for a position at ETH Zurich and has a doctoral degree in process engineering, mechanical engineering, energy science & technology, or chemical engineering from a recognized university. You already have strong experience in system modeling, environmental impact and cost assessment, ideally, with expertise in the chemical industry. You are highly motivated to learn, develop and apply novel optimization methods, and predictive cost and environmental assessment tools in an environment with other postdocs and doctoral students. The ability to work independently and excellent communication skills in English (both written and spoken) complete your profile.
## Workplace ##
## Workplace ##
## We offer ##
We offer you a full-time position for the duration of your postdoc, starting upon agreement, with the earliest starting of **1st of December, 2025**. The position is planned for 2 years with an initial contract for one year. We are providing a supportive environment that fosters professional and personal growth. You will work in an interdisciplinary team of researchers with in-depth experience in process design, energy system optimization, and experimental determination of thermophysical properties. As an integral partof your work, you will publish your results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at international conferences. The role does not necessarily entail teaching, but you will be given the opportunity to contribute to the group's teaching activities if so desired.
The Postdoc position provides access to state-of-the-art computational power enabling impactful research. The position supports the development of critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, and project management skills while contributing to the broader academic community through publications and presentations at leading conferences.
ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.
chevron\_right 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:
* curriculum Vitae, max. 2 pages;
* motivational Letter, max. 2 pages;
* transcript of records and grade statistics from the university degree(s); and
* contact details of 2 referees.
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal before **November 4th, 2025**. Please do not submit compressed files. We will not consider applications sent via email or postal services. We will get in touch with you after 2-3 weeks following the submission deadline.
For further information about the Energy and Process Systems Engineering (EPSE) Group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Vincent Dufour-Décieux vdufour@ethz.ch (no applications).
## About ETH Zürich ##
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.