Two PhD Positions in Innovation and Policy of Energy Storage at ETH Zurich ETH Zurich in Switzerland

ETH Zurich’s Energy and Technology Policy Group (EPG) is inviting applications for two PhD positions in Innovation and Policy of Energy Storage within the international RESTORATIVE project (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions).

The project addresses a major energy-transition challenge: how to scale grid-scale energy storage technologies to support the green transition. The research focuses on the competitiveness of long-duration and stationary storage technologies beyond lithium-ion batteries, and on how innovation, policy, regulation, markets, trade disruptions, and geopolitical factors shape their deployment.

Research methods include innovation theory frameworks, system dynamics modelling, and policy and economic analysis. The positions are embedded in an international doctoral network with 17 PhD researchers across 7 universities and 4 companies in 10 countries. Students will also intern with Siemens Energy and participate in an exchange at Imperial College London.

Eligible applicants should hold a master’s degree in industrial engineering, energy engineering, innovation studies, technology management, or economics/public policy with an energy or technology focus. Strong analytical and research skills, team orientation, and fluency in English are required. The MSCA mobility rule applies: applicants must not have spent more than 12 months in Switzerland during the 36 months before recruitment.

The positions are fully funded for 3 years and start in September 2026. Applications must be submitted online to ETH Zurich by 26 April 2026 with a motivation letter, CV, referee contacts, transcripts/diplomas, and a writing sample.

Supervision is by Prof. Tobias Schmidt and Prof. Bjarne Steffen at ETH Zurich. The group is part of ETH’s Albert Einstein School of Public Policy and Energy Science Center, with links to leading academic and policy institutions.