Senior Researcher in the field of heat pump systems

Institute for Renewable EnergyShort description of the position:Eurac Research’s Institute for Renewable Energy is hiring a highly experienced senior researcher to be integrated in the Team focused on expert controls in heat pump systems, part of the Sustainable Heating and Cooling Group. This role is central to advancing disruptive research and development in the field of effective, reliable, and flexible heat pump systems integrated into building applications.The candidate will design, drive, and oversee high-impact funded projects, and steer collaborations with industry partners to bring research findings to market and generate significant societal impact.The ideal candidate will bring expertise in compression-driven heat pump system design and management (theoretical and experimental), and a track record of leading R&D projects from concept to implementation, while working closely with industry partners and research collaborators.The candidate will closely collaborate with peers in and across research groups, especially those working on heat pump system lab tests and grid integration of electric-driven assets.Tasks:Research field overview: Supervise, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary and multicultural research group of 5-7 professionals in collaboration with the Group Leader, fostering an environment of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.Strategic Vision: In collaboration with the Group Leader, develop and devise the Team’s R&D strategy and steer the conversion of findings into practical applications.Research Excellence: Promote and uphold research excellence by driving innovative approaches, ensuring rigorous methodologies, and contributing to high-quality publications and presentations.Stakeholder Engagement: In close collaboration with the Group Leader, act as the liaison with external stakeholders, including corporate clients, academic partners, and cross-functional teams, promoting knowledge transfer and aligning projects with research, market, and societal needs.Operational Excellence: Coordinate high-priority projects, ensuring that each meets quality standards, budget constraints, and project timelines. Identify and implement improvements in project workflows, resource allocation, and data management to enhance overall efficiency and project outcomes. Proactively manage risks associated with project operation and ensure that all deliverables meet regulatory, research, and industry standards.Requirements:Experience: 5+ years in research, development and innovation, proposal writing and project management, with a focus on heat pump system technologies. In-depth knowledge of EU research and innovation funding schemes. Experience in cooperation with research, industry, and public institutions, with a well-developed and established contact network.Education: PhD in Energy or Mechanical Engineering, or related field.Domain Expertise: Deep technical know-how of heat pump systems. Experience with expert controls, particularly in machine learning, optimization, and model-based predictive controls, is a plus.Horizontal skills: High communication skills with collaborators, colleagues, partners, and clients. Demonstrated ability to lead complex research initiatives, strong strategic and analytical skills, and an ability to translate technical innovations into market-ready solutions.Languages: Excellent knowledge of English. Good knowledge of Italian and/or German.We offer:The opportunity to work in a young international team in a fast-growing and relevant sectorWorking conditions which foster continuous professional growth and know-how acquisition with career opportunity as applied researcherA stunningly beautiful surrounding offering a very high quality of lifeThe position is initially offered for a period of one year with a very high probability to be extendedEurac Research has been elected among the best workplaces in Italy and offers many opportunities in combining work and family activitiesHow to apply:Interested candidates should submit their application (CV, cover letter and further relevant documents) by #J-18808-Ljbffr