"Postdoctoral Researcher - Biogas and Intelligent Circular Industry"

ABOUT THE ROLE

The ACET Initiative, led by the University of Victoria in collaboration with the EISEA and Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech), is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to advance research in biogas, biochar, artificial intelligence infrastructure, data centre energy optimization and heat recovery, organic waste reutilization, and circular economy opportunities applied to island industries. This position offers joint supervision and the opportunity to work within a strong international research network focused on practical pathways for energy transformation.

A core component of the role is leading a case study on a biomethane (CH₄) plant under development on the island of Saaremaa, Estonia. The study will examine the plant’s technical inputs/outputs, operational and systems models, financing and partnership structure, policy environment, and social and environmental outcomes.

The Saaremaa biogas plant, located in Tahula village, is part of a national effort to expand Estonia’s renewable-gas capacity. Supported by the Estonian Environmental Investment Centre (KIK) and the EU’s NextGenerationEU fund, the facility will convert locally sourced agricultural waste into renewable biomethane while leveraging waste heat from a nearby data centre. The project is designed to reduce emissions, strengthen local energy security, and advance circular-economy practices on the island.

A key component of this position is facilitating two-way knowledge exchange between Canada and Estonia by:

• Sharing Canadian expertise abroad to support effective renewable-energy project development.
• Bringing insights, case findings, and innovations from Estonian partners back to Canada.
• Contributing to workshops, stakeholder engagement activities, and public-facing communications that support shared learning.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and coordinate the case study on the Saaremaa biomethane plant, including data collection, analysis, and engagement in coordination with ACET and EISEA.
• Conduct research and produce outputs related to biogas, biomethane, circular economy, and energy system transformation.
• Collaborate with research teams at UVic ACET, EISEA, and TalTech on research design, methodology, and analysis.
• Participate in knowledge-exchange and mobilization activities, including workshops, conferences, and meetings with industry, government, and community partners.
• Contribute to academic publications, technical reports, and policy briefs.
• Develop further phases of collaboration with ACET and EISEA related to bioproduct valorization, circular economy applications, data centre waste heat reutilization, and renewable energy system integration.
• Collaborate with ACET’s Research Manager and Engagement teams to align project delivery with broader initiative goals.
• Uphold ACET’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and safe workplaces through our EDI Action Plan and Code of Conduct
• Travel to Estonia as required for fieldwork, partner engagement, and knowledge-exchange activities (funded by ACET).
• Other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD in Chemical, Mechanical, Environmental, or Energy Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field relevant to energy systems, completed by the start date.
• Strong research record in energy transition, renewable energy systems, biogas/biomethane, AI infrastructure, computer vision on the scale of methanogenesis, data centre heat recovery or related interdisciplinary areas.
• Experience conducting case studies and engaging with industry or community interest holders is an asset.
• Ability to manage complex research projects, meet deadlines, and coordinate among diverse partners.
• Experience in applying systems approaches and/or systems modelling is an asset.
• Interest and/or experience in knowledge mobilization or international collaboration is highly desirable.
• Commitment to ongoing training to advance Truth and Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
• Commitment to continued training and implementation of principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion through research design and workplace practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Ability to speak or willingness to learn some Estonian would be considered an asset.
• Ability to work non-standard hours to accommodate international time zones.
• Ability to travel internationally and work effectively in a cross-cultural environment.

SALARY & WORK CONTEXT

• Salary: CAD $70,000
• This is a one-year, full-time position with the opportunity to extend based on project requirements and impact.
• This is a hybrid position based in British Columbia (ideally either Victoria or Vancouver B.C.).
• Funded travel to Estonia will be required.
• Opportunities for professional development, networking, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

ACADEMIC SUPERVISION

The Postdoctoral Researcher will be jointly supervised by ACET and EISEA, with academic collaboration through Tallinn University of Technology.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Please submit the following materials to contactacet@uvic.ca with the subject line “Biogas and Intelligent Circular Industry – Postdoctoral Application”

• Cover letter outlining relevant research experience and interest in biogas, circular economy, artificial intelligence, data centre waste heat reutilization, knowledge mobilization, and international collaboration (maximum 1 page).
• Curriculum vitae.
• One writing sample (e.g. a research article or report).

Applications will be accepted through Tuesday, March 10th, 2026.