Postdoc: Modeling Supporting a Zero-Carbon Energy Transition

Institution: Carnegie Institution for Science

Department: DGE – Global Ecology

Salary: Competitive

Location: Stanford, California

We are looking for one or more candidates for a postdoctoral research scientist position in the Carnegie Institution for Science’s Dept. of Global Ecology on the Stanford University campus. These positions are for a maximum of four years. Positions are open now and will remain open until filled.

Our research focuses on performing idealized modeling studies (e.g., macro-energy, integrated-assessment, climate and carbon-cycle modeling) to address climate and energy challenges with an emphasis on research that will inform decision makers. Postdoctoral researchers in this group have substantial latitude to define and lead their own research projects. 

We have a long list of ideas for possible projects.  Examples of possible project areas include:

Investigations at the intersection of energy sciences and the geophysical sciences. For example:  Using ocean general circulation models to investigate long-term biogeochemical and geophysical consequences of various ocean-based strategies to avoid climate damage.

Investigations aimed at developing multi-decadal energy-system capacity expansion models in the context of “decision making under uncertainty with learning”.  Can machine-learning help us to construct such models? What should we be doing now to hedge our bets against future uncertainty?

Investigations into least-cost energy systems in higher and lower wealth countries, in urban and rural settings, for industry and agriculture, etc. How are they different? What are the similarities?

Examples of recent work in the group addressed: storage needs in decarbonized electricity systems including long duration energy storage, opportunities for producing green hydrogen and electrofuels, the geophysical limits of power production in large-scale wind farms, wind and solar resource droughts, balancing climate and development goals, the potential for global electricity grids, and the role of electric vehicles in Africa's energy transition.

Responsibilities: 

• Work closely and collaboratively with other scientists to design, implement, analyze and summarize innovative research;
• Publish results in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals; 
• Present results at conferences and seminars. 

Required Qualifications: 

• Ph.D. in any scientific or engineering discipline with a grounding in the physical sciences or engineering;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Evidence of ability to work independently and in teams;
• Commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace.

The Carnegie Institution has a deep commitment to scientific excellence and diversity; we strongly encourage applications from candidates who will enrich and foster a culturally diverse and inclusive environment.

For more information and to apply, please see the extended job posting: https://jobs.carnegiescience.edu/jobs/postdoctoral-opportunity-idealized-energy-system-modeling-for-a-net-zero-emission-energy-system/

Employer Information: Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of background checks. The Carnegie Institution for Science is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive. Carnegie Science does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.