Postdoc in modeling of transformation of sociotechnical systems

Job description

We are looking for a postdoc focusing on analysis and modeling of the transformation of socio-technical systems, and specifically how different electrification strategies (battery-electric, fuel cells, electric roads, battery swaps etc) can compete with and complement each other. Previous studies have made techno-economic analyses of how the technologies stand against each other, but to understand how the technologies complement and compete with each other in a scale-up, a broader system approach is needed. Such a system approach needs to include supply and demand for green electricity and other fuels, the link to the expansion of electricity grids, the rate of expansion of infrastructure, the rate of development of technical solutions, and the possibility of ramping up in the manufacture of vehicles and technical components. Questions include, for example: Which technology fits where? What factors have the greatest impact on scaling up? What policies are useful to guide scale-up?

The task is to create a simulation model that illustrates the transition and competition between technologies. The simulation model will then be used to explore different scenarios and the competition between different technologies.

You will also be an active part of a growing team of researchers focused on modeling and analyzing complex socio-technical systems, and are expected to collaborate effectively with colleagues and jointly develop ideas for projects and project applications.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with an aim to explore new methods for combining qualitative and quantitative research approaches.

Qualifications

Requirements

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Research expertise
• Experience with simulation or modeling, for example, with System Dynamics, Agent-Based Modeling, or other types of modeling.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, as required in daily work.
• You have good collaboration skills, but also the ability to conduct your work independently.
• Awareness of diversity and equal opportunity issues, with specific focus on gender equality

Preferred qualifications

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline
• Knowledge about socio-technical systems and in particular the transition of socio-technical systems.
• Knowledge within systems analysis and/or system modelling or similar.
• Experience from the transport and/or energy industry, private or public sector.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal skills.

Join us at KTH

KTH shapes the future through education, research and innovation. As a leading international technical university, we play an active role in advancing the transition towards a sustainable society. At KTH, you have the opportunity to grow and develop in a creative and dynamic environment, with good working conditions and attractive benefits. Equality, diversity and equal opportunities are essential to quality and form an integral part of KTH’s core values as a university and public authority.

Learn more about our benefits and what it's like to work and grow at KTH.

Trade union representatives

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To apply for the position

Log into KTH's recruitment system to apply for this position. You are responsible for ensuring that your application is complete according to the instructions in the ad.

The application must include:

• CV including relevant professional experience and knowledge.
• Copy of diplomas and grades from your previous university studies. Translations into English or Swedish if the original documents have not been issued in any of these languages.
• Brief account of why you want to conduct research, your academic interests and how they relate to your previous studies and future goals. Max two pages long.

Your complete application must be received at KTH no later than the last day of application, midnight CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

About the employment

The position offered is for, at the most, two years.

A position as a postdoctoral fellow is a time-limited qualified appointment focusing mainly on research, intended as a first career step after a dissertation.

Others

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Disclaimer: In case of discrepancy between the Swedish original and the English translation of the job announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.