Senior Researcher Control Engineering – Energy Systems, Institute for Energy Systems, Buchs, Switzerland

Summary

OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences is hiring a Senior Researcher / Research Associate in Control Engineering – Energy Systems for its Institute for Energy Systems in Buchs SG, Switzerland. The role is full-time (100%) with an indefinite contract, starting immediately or by agreement. The selected candidate will help establish a new focus area in model-based control for heat pumps and flexible loads, developing scalable control and optimization concepts, software tools, and managing research work packages. Applicants must hold a Master's degree in engineering or a related field (PhD preferred) and possess at least five years of relevant professional experience. Applications are submitted via the university's online portal by October 9, 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Institute for Energy Systems
Position Type	Research Associate / Senior Researcher
Discipline	Engineering
Research Area	Control Engineering, Energy Systems, Model-based Control for Heat Pumps
Degree Required	Master's degree
Experience	At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in industry or academia
Contract Duration	Permanent
Deadline	2026-10-09
Required Documents	Application via online tool
Employer Contact	Prof. Dr. Matthäus Alberding, [email protected]; Sylvia Iten

About the Project

The Institute for Energy Systems is establishing a focus area around model-based control and optimization for heat pumps and flexible loads. The project utilizes high-resolution field measurement data and Switzerland's only accredited heat pump test centre to translate research into operational software tools for plant manufacturers and energy suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop scalable model-based control and optimization concepts for heat pumps and flexible loads
• Model and identify heat pump, building, and energy systems using measurement data
• Design and test scalable interfaces for connecting, monitoring, and controlling field systems
• Translate processes into software tools used in real-world operations by energy suppliers and manufacturers
• Independently manage work packages in applied research projects and provide technical guidance to employees
• Publish results, contribute to project proposals, and supervise students

Required Skills

• Master's degree in engineering or related field (PhD preferred)
• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in industry or academia
• Practical experience implementing models on real technical systems with measurement or operational data
• Production-level Python programming skills
• Structured work methods, strong communication skills, and scientific integrity

Who Should Apply

Engineers with a Master's degree (PhD preferred) in mechanical, electrical, mechatronics, cybernetics, or automation engineering, alongside at least 5 years of professional experience in model-based control, system identification, or modeling. Strong Python programming skills and practical system implementation experience are essential.

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, specializing in application-oriented research, development, and degree programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What degree is required for this position?

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, technical cybernetics, automation technology, or a related engineering field. A PhD is preferred.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is October 9, 2026.

Is this position temporary or permanent?

The employment type is indefinite (permanent).

How should I submit my application?

Applications should be submitted via the university's online tool at jobs-ost.ch.

Who can I contact for technical questions about the role?

For technical questions, contact Prof. Dr. Matthäus Alberding at [email protected].