Postdoctoral Fellow for environmental assessment of decarbonization strategies in mining and supply chains of critical raw materials in the context of the European Green Deal

The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore, about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether, PSI employs 2300 people.

Postdoctoral Fellow for environmental assessment of decarbonization strategies in mining and supply chains of critical raw materials in the context of the European Green Deal

Your tasks
You will perform prospective environmental Life Cycle Assessment (pLCA) of critical raw material (CRM) extraction processes and associated supply chains on a global level. These CRM supply chains represent a central pillar of the transformation of the European economy and society towards net zero greenhouse gas emissions and their decarbonization will have to be ensured without causing major environmental trade-offs. In this context, you will integrate material flow analysis (MFA) and pLCA and investigate recycling and circular economy options to reduce demand for primary material supply. Further, you will evaluate a broad portfolio of options to decarbonize the CRM supply chains from mineral extraction to end-of-life of the products using those CRM, including low-carbon technologies, but also material substitution, 2nd life applications and material efficiency measures. In addition, you will analyze geographical differentiation of CRM supply chains in the context of supply risks.

Your profile

• PhD degree in natural science, industrial ecology, engineering, or similar fields
• Several years of experience in environmental Life Cycle Assessment
• Specific advanced LCA skills: familiar with ecoinvent, brightway, and premise
• Profound knowledge of Python
• Interest in open software development
• Profound knowledge of English
• Solid experience in project management and collaborative project work
• Independent working style
• Communication skills to work well in a team

We offer
Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure. 

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