We are offering a 100% PhD researcher position on housings environmental footprint at the Laboratory for Human-Environment Relations in Urban Systems (HERUS), ENAC, at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The research focus of HERUS is on transitions of urban systems towards sustainability. HERUS is an interdisciplinary team, consisting of social scientists and natural scientists. We combine social science methods with material and energy flow models, using ABM or SD and where appropriate machine learning techniques. Within the SNF-funded transdisciplinary
research project “shrinking housings environmental footprint“ the research of the PhD students will focus on analysing tenants’ decision-making process with respect to dwelling choice linked to life-stages and developing an agent-based model for development and interaction between building owners and tenants over time. Thereby, the PhD student will combine qualitative and quantitative approaches to elicit the tenants behaviour.

For reference of past work please visit: http://herus.epfl.ch/

The PhD position will span maximal 4 years. Working language is English.

Your job

Full responsibility for your own research under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Claudia Binder and Dr. Rafael Laurenti
Collaboration with other partner research groups within EPFL and ETHZ as well as with practice partners
Research in collaboration with the research team and potential city partners
Teaching (20%)

We expect

An excellent MSC degree, preferably in Social sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geography, or other related fields
Knowledge of, and high interest in, inter- and transdisciplinary approaches and interest to employ qualitative and quantitative methods
German knowledge required
Basic modelling knowledge (ABM)
Proficiency in English, strong team spirit, social skills, good communication, independence, and a high level of motivation for academic research motivated by relevant practical problems

We offer

Excellent working conditions: an innovative and competitive atmosphere, modern equipped working areas and an environment that promotes access to the world’s best scientists
Full financial support for four years including conference visits
The position is open as of October 2017 or upon agreement
Please send your application including motivation letter, curriculum vitae, grades, list of
publications and two references until September 15 th 2017 in one PDF to: caroline.buehler@epfl.ch.
For questions please contact the head of the laboratory: claudia.binder@epfl.ch.