12715 - Junior scientist or postdoctoral researcher in water-energy systems and decision-making[...]

CMCC - Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici; Milano; In loco; EUR 40.000 - 70.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

An established research center is seeking motivated Junior Scientists or Postdoctoral Researchers to focus on the water-energy nexus and decision-making under uncertainty. This role involves developing multi-scale models to analyze the impacts of climate variability and socio-economic changes on sustainable infrastructure. Candidates will work on innovative methods for systems-level planning, contributing to significant policy impacts. Join a dynamic team committed to addressing global challenges and fostering an inclusive environment for professional growth.

Servizi

Welfare package

Flexible working hours

Support with immigration procedures

Competenze

• PhD in relevant fields is required.
• Strong analytical and programming skills are essential.

Mansioni

• Develop and apply modeling tools for water-energy systems.
• Incorporate uncertainty in policy analysis and system design.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on climate-resilient infrastructure.

Conoscenze

Analytical Skills

Programming in C++

Programming in Python

Energy Systems Modeling

Uncertainty Quantification

Formazione

PhD in Energy Engineering

PhD in Environmental Engineering

PhD in Systems Engineering

Descrizione del lavoro

CMCC Position cod. 12715

Junior scientist or postdoctoral researcher in water-energy systems and decision-making under uncertainty

Deadline: May 31st, 2025

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking 2 motivated and talented Junior Scientists or early Postdoctoral Researchers to join our team in environmental systems analysis, focusing on the water-energy nexus, robust decision-making, and uncertainty-aware modeling. The position is flexible in seniority and suited for candidates with strong analytical backgrounds and a passion for applied research with policy impact.

The candidates will develop and apply multi-scale models of water and energy systems to assess how climate variability, socio-economic changes, and global policies influence sustainable infrastructure planning, especially in data-scarce, rapidly evolving regions like the Global South.

A key part of this role involves integrating robust decision-making (RDM) frameworks and decision-making under deep uncertainty (DMDU) to design resilient strategies across various plausible futures, including methodological development and real policy case studies.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can explore synergies across energy, water, food, and land sectors and develop tools for systems-level planning.

ABOUT US

CMCC Foundation is a multidisciplinary scientific research center on climate change, aiming to promote sustainable growth, environmental protection, and climate adaptation strategies. Our goal is to conduct cutting-edge science, train future scientists, and serve as a leader in climate modeling.

The European Institute in Economics and the Environment (EIEE), part of CMCC, was established in 2018 through a partnership with Resources for the Future (RFF). It is a leading research center on climate economics with an international team.

At CMCC, we prioritize data-driven science, integrity, and training, fostering an inclusive, diverse, and innovative work environment. We are committed to supporting your professional growth and creating a workplace where everyone can excel.

ROLE

The researcher(s) will work under the supervision of the Technologies for Climate Transition (TCT) Division Director, focusing on developing innovative methods and applications in water and energy systems analysis, especially multi-scale modeling, optimization, and decision-making under deep uncertainty. The role includes supporting integrated models that reflect the complex linkages between water, energy, and climate systems, with an emphasis on infrastructure development in the Global South.

Special attention will be given to the water-energy nexus and applying RDM frameworks to improve system resilience under various uncertainties. This position offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to solutions for future-proof infrastructure planning.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and apply modeling tools capturing water-energy system interdependencies across scales.
• Incorporate uncertainty quantification and robust optimization in system design and policy analysis.
• Support applied research on climate-resilient infrastructure in regions with high uncertainty and limited data.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and engage stakeholders and policymakers.
• Contribute to proposal writing and fundraising activities.
• Communicate results via reports, publications, and presentations.
• Mentor interns or junior team members to build team capacity.
• Contribute to the objectives and methodological development of the EIEE institute.

REQUIREMENTS

• PhD in Energy, Environmental or Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related fields.
• Proficiency in English.
• Strong analytical skills and accuracy.
• Excellent programming skills in C++ and/or Python.
• Experience with state-of-the-art energy systems modeling.

DURATION, COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Position based in Milan at the CMCC office.
• Initial 12-month contract, renewable based on performance; potential tenure of 2-4 years.
• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
• Welfare package for at least 12 months.
• Flexible working hours.
• Support with immigration procedures if needed.
• Application process open internally and externally; interviews start one month after opening.

PROTECTED CATEGORY

Legally protected categories (ex L. 68/99) are given preference. Repatriated workers and foreign researchers may qualify for fiscal benefits under specific laws. CMCC is an equal-opportunity employer, evaluating candidates regardless of race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics. Please omit discriminatory data from your CV.

This announcement invites expressions of interest. Respondents confirm they have read and agree to the Official Rules for CMCC Personnel Recruitment. We will retain your data for up to 1 year.