Research Officer in Energy Law and Spatial Planning
Université de Lausanne
Lausanne
Key information
- Publication date:30 October 2025
- Workload:100%
-  Place of work:Lausanne
Job summary
Join UNIL, a top international institution with a vibrant community. This role offers a unique research opportunity in energy law.
Tasks
- Collaborate with local authorities on energy planning research.
- Gather information on energy needs through interviews with stakeholders.
- Develop and refine a pilot concept for energy self-consumption.
Skills
- Master's in Swiss law with knowledge in energy and land use law.
- Strong communication skills with external partners.
- Interest in action research and interdisciplinary approaches.
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Introduction
A leading international teaching and research institution, UNIL has nearly 5,000 staff members and 17,000 students, distributed between the Dorigny campus and the CHUV and Epalinges sites. As an employer, it promotes excellence, recognition of individuals, and responsibility.
Presentation
As part of a research project in the field of energy law and spatial planning, the Public Law Center of the Faculty of Law, Criminal Sciences and Public Administration is looking for a Research Officer.
Job Information
Start date: 01.01.2026 or to be agreed
Contract duration: 1 year*
Work rate: 20% to 30%*
Workplace: Lausanne Dorigny
*The work rate can be adjusted, with a reduction in contract duration not less than 6 months.
Your Activities
The project consists of rethinking energy production and consumption in order to preserve the landscape and quality of life in the mountains in three respects: coordinating installations through planning, promoting self-consumption, preserving mountain heritage. The position notably includes the following responsibilities:
- Collaborate with cantonal and municipal authorities within an action research framework to "Rethink energy for a preserved landscape."
- Collect, following interviews with authorities and private owners, as much information as possible on needs and opportunities in energy planning; this step includes identifying potentially available energy sources.
- Develop a pilot concept including the coordinated approach, the integrated approach, as well as a proposal for an energy self-consumption community based on the framework set by energy legislation. This mission involves conducting the legal research itself to identify instruments, legal bases, and applicable processes.
- Refine and optimize the pilot concept with various stakeholders.
Your Profile
We are looking for a person with the following profile:
•    Master's degree in Swiss law
•    Knowledge of spatial planning law and energy law, particularly related to energy installations
•    Interest in action research and interdisciplinary approaches
•    Ease of contact with external project partners (public authorities, landowners)
Your Benefits
A pleasant working environment in a multicultural and diverse academic setting.
Opportunities for continuing education, a multitude of activities, and other benefits to discover.
More information at www.unil.ch/carrieres
For Further Information
Professor Thierry Largey
thierry.largey@unil.ch
Your Application File
Application deadline: 23.11.2025
We invite you to send us your complete application file in Word or PDF format.
Only applications submitted through this site will be considered. 
Thank you for your understanding.
Job Description
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Remarks
UNIL is committed to:
•    Equality, diversity, and inclusion within its community;
•    Ensuring an open, respectful environment conducive to personal development;
•    Offering working conditions favorable to balancing different spheres of life.
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