Research Associate Heat Pumps & Building Technology – Institute for Energy Systems, Buchs, Switzerland

Summary

The Institute for Energy Systems (IES) at OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences seeks a Research Associate in Heat Pumps & Building Technology. The position is indefinite, with a 50‑100% workload, and starts immediately or by arrangement. Candidates must hold at least a Bachelor of Science degree, preferably a Master’s, and have several years of relevant professional experience, along with good German language skills. Responsibilities include independent research on heat pumps and building technology, project management, report preparation, scientific publishing, network maintenance, student supervision, and laboratory support. The role offers flexible working hours, holidays, pension, social security, continuing education, family support, fitness facilities, and a loyalty bonus. Applications are due by 22 October 2026 via the online tool, with Sylvia Iten as the contact person.

Key Facts

Department	Institute for Energy Systems (IES)
Position Type	Indefinite
Discipline	Energy Systems
Research Area	Heat pumps and building technology
Degree Required	Bachelor of Science
Experience	Several years of directly relevant professional experience
Contract Duration	Indefinite
Language	German
Deadline	2026-10-22
Employer Contact	Sylvia Iten, [email protected]

About the Project

The research focuses on experimental, conceptual, and simulation‑based projects related to heat pumps, building technology, and quality assurance. The associate will conduct independent investigations, manage smaller projects, support acquisition of new projects, prepare expert reports, and contribute to scientific publications, all in collaboration with public‑sector partners, industry, and planning entities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research projects on heat pumps, building technology and quality assurance (experimental, conceptual, simulation)
• Manage smaller projects and support project acquisition
• Prepare expert reports and analyses
• Contribute to scientific publications
• Maintain network with partners such as EnergieSchweiz, BFE, FWS, manufacturers and planners
• Supervise bachelor and semester theses
• Support laboratory organization and infrastructure maintenance

Required Skills

• Deep understanding of heat pump and refrigeration technology (desirable)
• Ability to handle analytical and conceptual problems independently
• Good judgment and high motivation
• Pragmatic working style with strong quality awareness
• Independent work style and good teamwork skills
• Good German language skills

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a Bachelor of Science (or higher) degree, several years of professional experience in heat pump or related fields, strong motivation, independent work style, teamwork abilities, and good German language skills are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Holidays
• Pension fund
• Social security
• Continuing education
• Family support
• Fitness & Sport
• Loyalty bonus

About the Employer

OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences is an intercantonal university with campuses in Buchs, Rapperswil‑Jona, and St. Gallen. The Institute for Energy Systems (IES) in Buchs focuses on energy systems, heat pumps, building technology and quality assurance, and collaborates with public sector partners, industry, and planning organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

2026-10-22

What is the employment type?

Indefinite (50‑100% workload)

Who is the contact person for inquiries?

Sylvia Iten, HR Business Partner, email [email protected]

What language skills are required?

Good German language skills

Where is the work location?

Institute for Energy Systems (IES), Buchs SG, Switzerland