PhD student in Positive Energy Districts and Urban Energy Transitions (100%)

Jobup; Sion; Sur place; EUR 35 000 - 45 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

An innovative research institute in Sion is looking for a motivated PhD candidate to join a European project on Positive Energy Districts. The position focuses on integrating technical and social dimensions to optimize climate-neutral cities. Candidates should have a Master's degree in engineering or environmental sciences and a solid background in technical modelling. This dynamic role offers a unique opportunity in an international research consortium at the forefront of the European energy transition.

Prestations

Collaboration with leading universities

Supportive environment for career development

Dynamic international research consortium

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in engineering or environmental sciences required.
• Solid technical background and quantitative skills needed.
• Experience with modelling and optimization is a plus.

Responsabilités

• Mapping and characterizing Positive Energy Districts across Europe.
• Developing taxonomies and data frameworks for energy systems.
• Linking modelling with stakeholder engagement and policy.

Connaissances

Technical modelling

Quantitative skills

Coding in Python

Interdisciplinary research

Stakeholder engagement

Formation

Master’s degree in engineering or environmental sciences

Outils

Python

Julia

MATLAB

Description du poste

The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Valais (HES-SO Valais-Wallis) has over 2,800 students. Through research and innovation, it contributes to economic and social development and the creation of jobs. The new Energypolis campus, home to the School of Engineering, EPFL and modern start-ups, is an innovative ecosystem for education and research. Why not come and join us?

The School of Engineering is looking for a

About the project

The Institute of Energy and Environment at the HES-SO Valais–Wallis is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to join the European project PRISE, focused on Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) and their role in climate‑neutral cities.

The research will combine technical modelling and social dimensions. On the technical side, the PhD will explore how to integrate energy vectors (electricity, heating/cooling, energy storage, renewables) and sustainable mobility options (active mobility, EVs, electrified public transport) to optimize PEDs under demand response and grid constraints. On the social side, the work will address governance and community engagement.

The approach will be tested in Ostend (Belgium), with possible extension to Sion (Switzerland). The candidate will also contribute to:

• Mapping and characterizing PEDs across Europe
• Developing taxonomies and data frameworks
• Linking modelling with stakeholder engagement and policy

Your profile

We are looking for a candidate with:

• A master’s degree in engineering or environmental sciences (energy, environmental, industrial, operations research, or related fields)
• A solid technical background and quantitative skills (experience with modelling, optimisation, or data analysis is a plus)
• Coding experience in Python, Julia, MATLAB, or other high‑level languages
• Openness to interdisciplinary research, bridging technical, economic, and social aspects
• Motivation to engage with stakeholders and explore governance/policy questions
• Team spirit, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to work independently

What we offer

• A position in a dynamic international research consortium at the forefront of the European energy transition
• The chance to collaborate with leading universities and research institutes across Europe
• A unique opportunity to combine technical expertise with policy and social dimensions
• A stimulating and supportive environment to develop your career as a researcher

Employment: 100%

Place of work: Sion

Starting date: no later than 01.01.2026

Contract duration: 1 year, renewable annually (total duration approx. 4 years)

For further information or informal inquiries, please contact Prof. Jakob Rager at jakob.rager(α)hevs.ch or Dr Alejandro Pena‑Bello at alejandro.penabello(α)hevs.ch.

Please submit your complete application documents (resume, motivation letter, diplomas and certificates) by 13 November 2025 by clicking on the Apply button. Only online applications will be considered.