Postdoc in Minigrids for rural electrification

Information about the research 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 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 viable minigrid solutions preferably using systems modelling and trans-disciplinary approaches. The research approaches may include quantitative, qualitative or action research or a combination of these 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.

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.

You will be part of the Energy System Group, which focuses on research of 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 you 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.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of two years (1+1).

Qualifications
To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must have a doctoral degree in energy systems, rural electrification, minigrid systems assessment/modelling; the degree should generally not be older than three years.

Experience/knowledge of energy systems assessment and modelling, optimisation, system dynamics, local energy systems, rural electrification, inter- and transdisciplinary research and stakeholder interviews are meritorious.

Excellent writing and communication skills in English are required.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Our offer to you
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the dynamic city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20200213 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

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.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 12 June, 2020

For questions, please contact:
Professor Erik Ahlgren, Energy Technology
E-mail: erik.ahlgren@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31 7725247

Information about the department
The Department of Space, Earth and Environment contains five divisions, with research and education spanning from global challenges related to sustainability and energy supply to astronomy and space sciences. The department is host to two major infrastructures, Onsala Space Observatory and Chalmers Power Central, and consists of about 250 employees.

*** 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!