Postdoc / Modelling and Analysis of Integrated Power, Gas and Hydrogen Systems Full-time

Postdoc / Modelling and Analysis of Integrated Power, Gas and Hydrogen Systems

At the Institute of Climate and Energy Research – Energy Systems Engineering (ICE-1), our focus is on developing models and algorithms for simulating and optimising decentralised, integrated energy systems. These systems are characterised by the high spatial and temporal variability of energy supply and demand, and by the high degree of interdependence of material and energy flows. Our research aims to provide scalable, faster-than-real-time capable methods and tools that enable the energy-optimal, cost-efficient and safe design and operation of future energy systems.

Your Job

This postdoctoral position focuses on scenario development, as well as the modelling, simulation and analysis of coupled power and gas grids in Europe. The research project aims to develop advanced, cross-sectoral simulation frameworks that can be used to investigate the interaction between electricity, natural gas and hydrogen infrastructures under future energy transition scenarios, and to support informed decision-making for integrated energy systems.

Your tasks in detail:

• Analyze the impacts of future energy transition pathways on the planning and operation of European power and gas infrastructures, and evaluate system behaviour under diverse infrastructure, market, and policy scenarios using scenario-based modelling and simulation
• Develop and implement models for the simulation and analysis of coupled electricity and gas networks, with a focus on large-scale European energy infrastructures
• Assess interactions between power, gas, and sector-coupled energy systems, with a focus on operational flexibility, cross-sector dependencies, and potential bottlenecks
• Enhance and extend our simulation tools, especially GasNetSim, to support evolving research questions and comprehensive integrated system analyses
• Disseminate your findings through scientific publications, conferences, and collaborations
• Supervise Bachelor's and Master's students and represent the institute division in national and international research contexts

Your Profile

• Excellent Master's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, energy systems, computational engineering, or a related field
• Background in numerical methods, mathematical modeling, and network simulation or analysis
• Good understanding of power systems, gas networks, or coupled multi-energy systems
• Proficient in programming, especially in Python; experience with C/C++ is an advantage
• Interest in scientific software development, large-scale infrastructure modelling, and computational research
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated
• Strong analytical and independent working style
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills

Our Benefits for You

We work on highly topical, socially relevant issues and offer you the opportunity to actively shape change! You can expect a wide range of opportunities:

• Work-life balance: Optimal conditions for balancing work and private life, as well as a family-friendly company policy. The option of flexible working (in terms of location) is generally available after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• Vacation: You will receive 30 days of vacation (depending on the chosen working time model) plus additional days off (e.g. between Christmas and New Year's)
• Flexibility: Flexible working time models, including options close to full-time, allow you to tailor your working hours to suit your individual needs
• Knowledge & further training: Your professional development is important to us – we provide targeted, individual support
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your existing qualifications and the tasks assigned to you, you will be classified in pay grade 13 of the TVöD-Bund (Collective Agreement for the Public Service). All information on the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website. The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 69 ff. of the PDF download
• Additional benefits: Benefit from attractive additional services such as a company pension scheme with employer contribution. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital-forming benefits
• Fixed-term: The position is limited to 2 years, with the possibility of long-term employment
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started
• Career Center: You will receive explicit support with regard to your career development opportunities

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey