Postdoctoral position in Energy Sciences with a focus on energy system modeling

Description of the workplace

The position is a collaboration between the Division of Sustainable Energy Systems and Division of Heat Transfer, both located at the Department of Energy Sciences. At the division of Heat Transfer, we conduct research and education on the energy generation, conversion, and utilization in different thermo-mechanical systems where the study of heat transfer, fluid mechanics as well as structural dynamics plays a central role. Approximately 30 colleagues work at the division, including 20 PhD students. On the international level we collaborate with universities and institutes in Europe, Asia, and North America. At the division of Sustainable Energy Systems we conduct research and education about development of efficient and environmentally friendly energy systems with a specific focus of grid bound energy systems like electricity, district heating and gas systems as well as the markets surrounding these systems. About 20 colleagues work at the division, where two thirds are PhD students.

This environment is a smorgasbord of resources and opportunities for those who wants to develop their careers and make a difference in the transition towards a sustainable future.

Subject description

This position is a part of the project “Hycogen 2 System perspective for efficient hydrogen production and use by sector coupling to district heating”

When converting electricity to hydrogen through electrolysis, 30% of the energy go to heat losses. The EU's goal of producing 10 million tonnes of hydrogen per year by 2030 means 230 TWh of residual heat, corresponding to four times Sweden's total district heating energy. It shows the potential and importance of using the heat surplus in future investments. Hycogen 2 shows in how it can be implemented both at national and EU level. Hycogen 2 analyzes and proposes solutions for how hydrogen production, with sector connection to district heating and/or cooling, can be designed and controlled with respect to operating temperatures, cooling system design etc. to maximize overall system energy efficiency and benefit to the electrical system. Integrated hydrogen systems should be designed so the residual heat will be of larger use based on local conditions. The residual heat can thus enable a significant fuel substitution at the same time as the entire energy system becomes more robust.

This position focuses on energy system modeling, specifically sector couplings including hydrogen and district heating.

In addition to participation in the Hycogen 2 project, this position will be linked to other research and education projects in which the departments involved participate.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development.

Detailed description of the work duties:

• To build energy system models describing hydrogen production with heat recovery, for example in Phyton, e.g., research in the Hycogen 2 project.
• Research in additional research project in the field of energy transition.
• Analyze and publish results in well-established scientific journals within the subject area.
• Interact with the team for the development of innovative research within the subject area.
• Collaborate in seeking external research funding for mutual benefit.
• Participate in teaching, including supervision degree projects and doctoral students.

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Documented experience of programing and/or energy system modelling

Assessment criteria

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Other qualifications:

• Experience from energy system modeling
• Experience from programming in Python
• Knowledge of fuel cells/electrolysers
• Knowledge of district heating
• Knowledge of energy markets
• Teaching experience
• Examples of innovative research/creative problem solving
• Is independent and has a good ability to plan and deliver
• The ability to collaborate with external partners, for instance industry
• Education that constitutes an additional qualification
• Other that offers value to the position

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme.
Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English. Please draw up the application in accordance with LTH’s Academic qualifications portfolio – see link below. Upload the application as PDF-files in the recruitment system (including your PhD certificate). Read more: To apply for academic positions at LTH. http://www.lth.se/english/working-at-lth/to-apply-for-academic-positions-at-lth/

Welcome to apply!