Field of Research & Scope

The energy transition toward climate neutrality is one of the defining challenges of our time – calling for bright minds to develop and evaluate technological and policy solutions. Join our research group, Energy Transition and Climate Futures, and help generate the scientific insights that will guide the transformation towards renewable energy, deep electrification, hydrogen, and a circular economy. We combine cutting-edge computational modeling with policy-relevant research to explore how energy systems, heavy industries, and societies can transition to a sustainable future. Under our guidance, you will develop your PhD thesis topic and concept in alignment with your interests and career goals, as well as with the research group’s strategy and broader societal needs. 

We offer

• Scientific growth & personal development: Through a structured PhD program and close supervision within our research group, you will gain the knowledge and methodological skills to conduct cutting-edge research on one of the most pressing challenges of our time. You will be part of a diverse and supportive team, supervised by Prof. Falko Ueckerdt, a leading expert in the field, who regularly publishes in high-impact journals such as Nature Energy.  
• International collaboration: You will work in an international and interdisciplinary research environment at a young and dynamic university with strong ties to leading research institutions (e.g., Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, TU Berlin, University of Oxford, Monash University in Australia). You will have opportunities for short research stays abroad and to present your work at international conferences.
• Societal dialogue & policy advise: You will have the chance to engage with stakeholders from industry, policymaking, and civil society, translating your research into actionable insights that inform the energy transition and climate policy debates.

Responsibilities & Tasks

• Conduct research based on computational models and tools (for recent examples, click here, here or here).
• Write and publish scientific papers.
• Present research at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with other research groups on an interdisciplinary basis.
• Contribute to academic teaching (up to 2 weekly credit hours).
• Support the research group in preparing applications for third-party funding.
• Comply with the institution’s academic standards and ethical guidelines.

Skills & Qualifications needed

• Strong interest in energy system transformation, climate change mitigation, and computational modeling.
• Master's degree or equivalent in energy and climate studies, computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, economics, system sciences, or another relevant field.
• Programming skills and a basic understanding of computational modeling.
• Experience or familiarity with techno-economic analysis or energy system and scenario modeling is an advantage.
• Ability to work and think independently.
• Team orientation and strong communication skills in English (CEFR C1 or equivalent).

What you can expect

• Innovative and stimulating working conditions in an interdisciplinary, international research environment.
• Office kitchen with complimentary basic supplies.
• Austrian “KlimaTicket Ö” (unlimited travel on all public transportation within Austria).
• We offer a gross salary in line with the market from EUR 3.714,80 on a full-time basis (40h).
• An interdisciplinary education program within a structured PhD program, with close supervision, and career development planning.

Program Structure

IT:U offers a 4-year, structured PhD program.
 
In the first year, emphasis is placed on focused group work, research lab modules, and Project Integrated Courses (PICS). The first year concludes with a PhD Proposal Presentation. Over the next three years, students will develop and write their PhD theses. This is accompanied by interdisciplinary research seminars and work as a project assistant. The PhD program concludes after the 4th year with the submission and defense of the PhD thesis. 
 
Click here to view the curriculum. 

How to apply

Please fill in the online application form and upload your files at: https://apply.it-u.at/

• Curriculum Vitae
• Optional: If available, you may upload your final secondary-school transcript (e.g., Matura/Abitur/high school). This is entirely optional and will never be used to exclude applicants. Non-traditional pathways (e.g., Studienberechtigungsprüfung) are warmly welcomed.
• Bachelor’s and master’s diploma (or equivalent)
• Bachelor’s and master’s transcript of records
• Motivational letter (max. 1 page)
• A compilation of programming experience (ideally with a link to a personal git account or similar)
• Up to 3 contacts of professors/collaborators for recommendations

For details, questions and expressions of interest, candidates are welcome to contact the principal investigator Falko Ueckerdt, falko.ueckerdt@it-u.at, before submitting their application. Please attach a CV to your email. 

We look forward to receiving your online application.

The positions will remain open until filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply early, as review of applications will begin on a rolling basis. The call will close on 31 January 2026.