Two PhD positions on Innovation and Policy of Energy Storage ETH Zürich in Switzerland

ETH Zürich’s Energy and Technology Policy Group (EPG) invites applications for two PhD positions focused on the innovation and policy of energy storage. These positions are part of the RESTORATIVE project, funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA), which aims to accelerate the green transition through grid-scale energy storage research. The RESTORATIVE consortium trains 17 PhD students across 7 universities and 4 companies, with research themes spanning technological development, reliability, integration, socioeconomic and environmental assessment, and policy/regulation.

The successful candidates will join the Einstein School’s doctoral program at ETH Zürich, one of Europe’s leading research universities. The positions are for three years, starting in September 2026, and will focus on the competitiveness of various long-term stationary energy storage technologies. Research will involve innovation theory-based frameworks and system dynamic modelling to analyze technology competitiveness and the impact of trade disruptions on energy policy, industrial policy, and geopolitical strategies.

As part of the MSCA program, students will intern with Siemens Energy’s storage division and participate in academic exchange with the Energy Systems Lab at Imperial College London. The EPG group offers an entrepreneurial research atmosphere, frequent interactions with leading scholars, and collaborations with international institutions such as CMCC, MIT, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, and the World Economic Forum.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in industrial engineering, energy engineering, innovation studies, technology management, or economics/public policy with an energy/technology focus. Interdisciplinary candidates are encouraged to apply. Proficiency in English and a team-oriented working style are required. Eligibility is subject to MSCA mobility rules: candidates must have spent less than 12 months in Switzerland in the 36 months before recruitment. All nationalities are welcome, and a Swiss work permit is not required at the time of application.

ETH Zürich values diversity, sustainability, and equal opportunity. The university promotes an inclusive culture and a climate-neutral future. The PhD students will be supervised by Prof. Tobias Schmidt (main supervisor) and Prof. Bjarne Steffen (second supervisor), with opportunities to contribute to EPG’s research agenda and co-advise master’s and doctoral students.

To apply, submit your application online by 26 April 2026, including a letter of motivation, CV, contact information for two references, diplomas/transcripts, and a sample of written work. Applications are only accepted through the ETH Zurich portal. For questions, contact Prof. Schmidt at [email protected] (no applications via email).

ETH Zürich is renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and global connections. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries contribute to its vibrant academic community, working together to address global challenges.