PhD student in Positive Energy Districts and Urban Energy Transitions (100%)

About the project

The Institute of Energy and Environment at the HES-SO Valais–Wallis is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to join the European project PRISE, focused on Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) and their role in climate-neutral cities.

The research will combine technical modelling and social dimensions. On the technical side, the PhD will explore how to integrate energy vectors (electricity, heating/cooling, energy storage, renewables) and sustainable mobility options (active mobility, EVs, electrified public transport) to optimize PEDs under demand response and grid constraints. On the social side, the work will address governance and community engagement.

The approach will be tested in Ostend (Belgium), with possible extension to Sion (Switzerland). The candidate will also contribute to:

• Mapping and characterizing PEDs across Europe
• Developing taxonomies and data frameworks
• Linking modelling with stakeholder engagement and policy

This PhD offers a unique perspective on urban energy transitions, combining advanced modelling with interdisciplinary methods. The doctoral candidate will be enrolled at a Swiss partner university and jointly supervised by the HES-SO Valais–Wallis.

Your profile

We are looking for a candidate with:

• A master’s degree in engineering or environmental sciences (energy, environmental, industrial, operations research, or related fields)
• A solid technical background and quantitative skills (experience with modelling, optimization, or data analysis is a plus)
• Coding experience in Python, Julia, MATLAB, or other high-level languages
• Openness to interdisciplinary research, bridging technical, economic, and social aspects
• Motivation to engage with stakeholders and explore governance/policy questions
• Team spirit, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to work independently

What we offer

• A position in a dynamic international research consortium at the forefront of the European energy transition
• The chance to collaborate with leading universities and research institutes across Europe
• A unique opportunity to combine technical expertise with policy and social dimensions
• A stimulating and supportive environment to develop your career as a researcher

Employment: 100%

Place of work: Sion

Starting date: no later than 01.01.2026

Contract duration: 1 year, renewable annually (total duration approx. 4 years)

For further information or informal inquiries, please contact Prof. Jakob Rager at jakob.rager(α)hevs.ch or Dr Alejandro Pena-Bello at alejandro.penabello(α)hevs.ch.

Please submit your complete application documents (resume, motivation letter, diplomas and certificates) by 13 November 2025 by clicking on the Apply button. Only online applications will be considered.