Postdoc in Water Distribution System Modelling and System Analysis
Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a postdoctoral position in water distribution system modelling and system analysis, based in the Division of Water Environment Technology (WET) and Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering (ACE) in Gothenburg, Sweden. The research area focuses on drinking water resources and systems, tackling challenges in urban water infrastructure and natural water systems, with a strong commitment to sustainable development and collaboration with the water industry.
The postdoc will join a dynamic and innovative team working on a project aimed at water savings in drinking water distribution networks, addressing both supply and demand sides. Key objectives include developing and testing new models and methods for detecting, predicting, and mitigating water leakage, leveraging sensor data and advanced machine learning/artificial intelligence techniques. The project also explores the replacement of drinking water with alternative sources, such as greywater reuse, to reduce overall water consumption. Coordination of technology, policy, incentives, risk assessment, and stakeholder collaboration are central to enabling sustainable water use.
Models developed in this project are intended to support water utilities in updating pipe renewal strategies and active leakage detection, contributing to reduced leakages, pipe failures, energy use, and optimized economic resources. The research aims to foster resilient and sustainable water supply systems with minimized water and energy footprints.
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a water engineering topic or a closely related field, with eligibility met by the time of employment decision. Required qualifications include experience in risk assessment and system modelling, strong English communication skills, and some teaching experience. Highly meritorious candidates will have obtained their doctoral degree within the last 3–4 years. Additional advantageous skills include decision support (cost-benefit analysis), digital twin modelling, machine learning, analysis of disaggregated water consumption data, and Python programming. Physical presence is required throughout the employment, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date.
The postdoc will collaborate with master’s and doctoral students, senior professors, and researchers, performing hydraulic modelling of water distribution networks, integrating digital twins, analyzing operational data for leakage detection, assessing water balance of alternative sources, and evaluating system risks. The role includes opportunities for teaching at the master’s level and supervision of students. The position is a full-time, temporary employment for two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension, and includes all employee benefits at Chalmers.
Chalmers offers a supportive and inspiring working environment, with benefits such as generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. The university is dedicated to gender balance, equality, and inclusion, and provides Swedish language courses for non-native speakers. The application process requires submission of documents in English as PDF files via the provided application link. Incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered. References will be requested after the interview. The deadline for applications is 20 June 2026.
For further information, contact Professor Thomas Pettersson ([email protected]), Associated Professor Andreas Lindhe ([email protected]), or PhD researcher Jesper Knutsson ([email protected]).
