The Department of Applied Physics and Electronics is looking for a staff scientist to work primarily with energy modeling of buildings and conducting simulations. The position is 100% full-time for a period of 12 months with a start date of June 1 or as agreed. The application deadline is May 10, 2026.
Project description Residential and community‑level energy use varies significantly over daily and seasonal cycles, influenced by routines, comfort expectations, occupancy patterns, and social norms. These behavioral dynamics critically interact with renewable energy production, storage technologies, and system flexibility options such as demand response and load shifting. Conventional urban building energy models (UBEM) predominantly focus on technical aspects and often rely on simplified and homogenous assumptions about energy use behaviour thereby underrepresenting the heterogeneity of human behavior and its feedback with technical systems. The overarching aim of this research is to develop an integrated modelling framework that captures how technical interventions and everyday behavioural practices co‑evolve and jointly affect energy system performance.
Tasks As a staff scientist, you will support the research group. Within the framework of the project, you will work on the development of a multi-agent AI-based framework that simplifies and automates the use of so-called bottom-up urban building energy models (UBEM).
The work also involves using several large language models (LLM) to manage workflows, process data, develop user and building archetypes, conduct simulations, and analyze results and future scenarios. You will also conduct simulation studies and actively participate in the writing and publication of scientific articles in international journals. Other administrative tasks may occur.
Qualification requirements You have a doctoral degree in energy engineering or a corresponding subject that is deemed relevant.
You must have documented expertise and demonstrated research competence in energy simulation of buildings with software such as EnergyPlus and/or City Energy Analysis.
Good knowledge of English, both spoken and written, as well as a very good ability to write scientific publications is a requirement.
Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic research environment are highly valued, as are good problem-solving skills and a willingness to take personal responsibility and initiative.
Other desirable qualifications We are looking for someone who has a strong personal interest in research and development in the field of building physics, principles of energy efficiency and energy systems technology.
Documented experience in data-driven urban energy modeling with Python and machine learning as well as experience in administrative tasks is also an advantage.
Terms of employment The employment is full-time and limited to 12 months with commencement on June 1, 2026 or as agreed.
Application The application must consist of the following documents:
CV/Certificate of Merit with list of publications,
Personal letter with a brief description of your qualifications, your scientific interests and your motivations for applying for the position (maximum two pages)
Certified copy of doctoral degree certificate. Certified copies of other degree certificates, academic course certificates and/or grades,
Copy of doctoral thesis and up to five relevant articles,
Other documents that the applicant wishes to rely on,
Names and contact information for at least two references must be provided during any interview.
You apply via our recruitment system Varbi no later than May 10, 2026.
For further information about the position, please contact Gireesh Nair, gireesh.nair@umu.se .
Umeå University wants to offer an equal environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity and development. We welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current employment.
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