Post-doc: Batteries in solar PV minigrids - an interdisciplinary approach

Information about the project and the division 
Minigrids are a viable alternative for rural electrification in non-electrified areas in sub-Saharan African countries. They can be supplied by renewable energy sources and technologies and can supply sufficient power for most small-scale industries and are therefore the most cost-effective solutions for rural electrification for development in large areas. However, the supply-demand interactions and system designs, including the role of batteries for viable system design, are difficult to understand and require an interdisciplinary approach combining technical, economical and social perspectives.

This postdoc research, which is to build upon and link to a number of completed and ongoing research activities at Chalmers within the area of rural electrification in least developed countries, should address the role and sizing of betteries in minigrids using a systems perspective and interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches and possibly using systems modelling. The research approach should include a combination of quantitative and qualitative research and possibly also action research methods. Creativity and open-mindedness are expected in carrying out the research and realizing the objectives, especially given the context of hard to come-by data. Further, the postdoc is expected to collaborate with researcher at three different departments at Chalmers and actively support such cross-department collaboration.

The Division of Energy Technology conducts research and offers education in energy technology and energy systems. Our work is characterised by the combination of systems-level projects with research on energy transformation processes, and our participation in a great number of national and international research projects.

The research of the Energy System Group focuses on energy transitions, sustainable energy systems, and energy system technology with a particular emphasis on modelling analysis of transitions of the power, heat and transport sectors.

Major responsibilities
As a postdoc your are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing. You are also expected to contribute to the project and take active part and in building and maintaining collaborative links with relevant members of the department, research project members and stakeholders. Teaching may constitute a small share of the position.

Qualifications
To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree in energy systems, rural electrification, minigrid systems assessment/modelling etc, awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline. 
Desired experience and knowledge:
- energy systems assessment and modelling
- optimisation
- system dynamics
- local energy systems
- rural electrification
- inter- and transdisciplinary research
- stakeholder interviews

The position requires sound verbal and excellent written communication skills in English. 

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for two years, with a possible one-year extension.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20220707 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• CV, include complete list of publications
• Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Application deadline: January 31, 2023. 

For questions, please contact:
Professor Erik Ahlgren, Energy Technology
Email: erik.ahlgren@chalmers.se
Phone: +46317725247 

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 





Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!