Postdoctoral Scholar Opening in Indoor Environmental Quality

Position summary

EPFL (École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering. The project will be based in the Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab (HOBEL) at the EPFL Fribourg campus in the city of Fribourg.

The research focus of HOBEL is centered on advancing the knowledge in the following domains:

• Indoor environmental quality
• Building ventilation
• Pollutant dynamics in indoor air and exposure science

This role involves contribution to two primary projects: The first aims at pioneering the assessment of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) across residential and educational settings in Europe, integrating advanced IEQ metrics, occupant surveys, the impact of building retrofits on IEQ, analysis of data via internet-connected sensing solutions, and the development of interfaces for understanding occupant preferences. The second project is dedicated to creating and utilizing the first Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) database, assembling and standardizing extensive scientific data from IAQ field campaigns globally, and uncovering new insights through this comprehensive database. Additionally, the candidate will have the opportunity to propose and develop independent project ideas within HOBEL's research scope.

Entry requirements

Strong candidates will posses:

• Proven expertise in the research areas mentioned above.
• A PhD degree (or imminent completion) in Mechanical, Civil, Architectural Engineering, or a related field.
• High proficiency in data analytics with programming languages (MATLAB, R, Python, etc.). Knoweldge of how to handle large databases is a plus.
• A strong inclination for experimental and field-based research.
• A track record of publishing in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent teamwork, communication (written and oral in English), and interpersonal skills.

How to apply

Applicants should send a single file in PDF format including a cover letter describing their research experience and interests (max. 2 pages), a CV, and the names and contact information (including e-mail addresses) for three references to: Prof. Dusan Licina (dusan.licina@epfl.ch). Please indicate the following email subject: Application for a Postdoctoral Scholar Opening in Indoor Environmental Quality. Note that you will likely not receive any response until June.

Timelines and working conditions

The start date is flexible, with a preference for early commencement. This 2-year position, with the possibility of renewal, offers a competitive salary, comparable to leading universities in Europe and the USA. The successful candidate will join an international team, lead research projects, potentially contribute to teaching, and have full access to EPFL's facilities in Fribourg and Lausanne. Opportunities for national and international collaboration with both academia and industry partners are also available.

For more information about HOBEL, see: https://www.epfl.ch/labs/hobel/

For more information about Prof. Dusan Licina, see: https://people.epfl.ch/dusan.licina

For more information about EPFL, see: https://www.epfl.ch/en/

For more information about Smart Living Lab, see: https://smartlivinglab.ch

Posted: 10 April 2024