"Postdoctoral Research Associate"

Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Description:

The Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment at Princeton University seeks applications for two interdisciplinary postdoctoral research or more senior research positions to analyze and model the delivery of clean energy and industrial decarbonization infrastructure associated with net-zero transitions. The role will report to the Andlinger Center's Dr. Chris Greig, the Theodora D. '78 and William H. '74 Walton III Senior Research Scientist.

The research is highly applied in nature, and will involve a granular exploration of the sequence of development, investment decision making, financing, and construction activities that are associated with the disciplined allocation of capital to large-scale infrastructure projects by corporations. The analysis is expected to identify key development interdependencies between sectors and assets, which if not addressed, create investment decision bottlenecks that limit the speed of the energy transition. The types of assets to be analyzed include: clean electricity generation, transmission and storage; clean fuels production transport and storage; CO2 capture, transport and storage; and associated supply chains. The work will focus initially on energy transitions in the United States and Australia, but may also explore India, China, and elsewhere.

Responsibilities include: analyzing the outputs of macroscale models of net-zero transitions to quantify infrastructure implications; engaging with key stakeholders engaged in infrastructure delivery, including energy companies, project developers, regulators, and financial institutions; and developing the next generation of energy system modelling tools that better represent the real-world practicalities of developing and delivering the thousands of individual assets that underpin most proposed energy transitions. These models will be used to design and test policy and investment interventions to alleviate deployment bottlenecks.

The successful candidate will have experience with applied energy systems analysis, economy-wide energy system decarbonization models, and will ideally be familiar with infrastructure development and financing protocols. Domain expertise and proficiency with net-zero systems thinking, experience with a variety of programming languages, and familiarity with critical path planning tools, are essential. A Ph.D. in engineering, operations research, computer science, or another related field is required. Experience working across disciplines and with industry is highly desirable.

The term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments.

Applicants must apply online at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/39383 and submit a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. The position is subject to the University's background check policy.

Expected Salary Range: PDRA: $75k - $84k :: ARS: $86k - $89k

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Requisition No: D-26-ENE-00002