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PhD position: Carbon dioxide removal technologies in deep mitigationpathways
100%, Zurich, fixed-termprint Drucken
The Energy and Process Systems Engineering (EPSE) Group at ETH Zürich is seeking a PhD student to investigate the role of carbon dioxide removal technologies in achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. The position is funded by Horizon Europe and allows collaboration with leading experts on integrated assessment modeling from Europe and the US. The PhD position will focus on detailed techno-economic models of direct air capture and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage.
The research of the EPSE group at ETH Zürich, led by Prof. Dr André Bardow, is centered on sustainability in energy and chemical process systems. Our group aims to develop innovative methods to advance sustainable energy and chemical process systems ranging from molecular to systems scale. In our work, we combine computer-aided molecular and process design to optimize molecules and processes simultaneously. To holistically evaluate the environmental impacts of chemicals and energy systems, we develop predictive methods for Life Cycle Assessment. Our group's technological focus currently lies on Power-to-X and sector coupling, sustainable carbon feedstock, and carbon capture, utilization and storage.
Project backgroundLimiting global average temperature rise to below 1.5°C requires significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, ultimately to net-zero and even below net-zero. Achieving such steep reductions and sustaining negative emissions requires carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies. These findings were collected by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) based on findings from Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs). However, current integrated assessment models only poorly represent CDR technologies, limiting our understanding of the potential role of CDR.
This project aims to improve the representation of CDR technologies within Integrated Assessment Models to investigate the role of negative emissions within transition scenarios. To this end, a wide range of CDR technologies is systematically assessed individually and within systems.
In particular, detailed techno-economic models will be developed for CDR technologies, including direct air capture and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage. The models will cover their full value chains and development pathways. Aggregated representations will be developed and integrated into IAMs, increasing their technology richness. The potential of CDR technologies will be investigated at regional and global levels.
Job descriptionThe interdisciplinary project aims to investigate carbon dioxide removal technologies holistically, including their technological readiness, scalability, and effectiveness. Furthermore, social and governance implications are considered, as well as their impact on the deployment of other emission reduction options and on Sustainable Development Goals.
Your work within this project will involve techno-economic modeling of alternatives for carbon dioxide removal technology. Specifically, you will participate in:
This work will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of a portfolio of carbon dioxide removal technologies and the development of integrated assessment models within a dynamic team of researchers and an international consortium.
We offer you a full-time position for the duration of your PhD. The envisioned starting date is September 1, 2023 that we are open to discuss. You will be part of an interdisciplinary team of researchers with in-depth experience in process design, energy system optimization, and techno-economic assessment. As an integral part of your work, you will publish your results in peer- reviewed journals and present them at international conferences.
Your profileWe are committed to creating an inclusive environment and encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Your workplace Your workplace We offerETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.
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We value diversityIn line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Curious? So are we.We look forward to receiving your online application by March 31, 2023 with the following documents:
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. We will not consider applications sent via email or postal services. We will get in touch with you after 2-3 weeks following the submission deadline.
For further information about the Energy and Process Systems Engineering (EPSE) Group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr André Bardow, [email protected], or David Shu, [email protected] (no applications).
About ETH ZürichETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
Curious? So are we.We look forward to receiving your online application by March 31, 2023 with the following documents:
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. We will not consider applications sent via email or postal services. We will get in touch with you after 2-3 weeks following the submission deadline.
For further information about the Energy and Process Systems Engineering (EPSE) Group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr André Bardow, [email protected], or David Shu, [email protected] (no applications).
Apply online now
About ETH ZürichETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
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