Summary
Princeton University’s Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment is seeking one or more Postdoctoral Research Associates or senior researchers to join the Zero-carbon Energy systems Research and Optimization Laboratory (ZERO Lab). Run by Assistant Professor Jesse D. Jenkins, the ZERO Lab focuses on improving and applying optimization-based macro-energy systems to evaluate low-carbon technologies, guide investments, and inform energy and climate policy decisions.
Postdoctoral Research Associate: Zero-Carbon Energy Systems at Princeton University, US
Designation
Postdoctoral Research Associate (or Associate Research Scholar for candidates with 3+ years of postdoctoral experience)
Key Details
| Category | Information |
| Institution | Princeton University |
| Department | Office of the Dean of the Faculty: Engineering: Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment |
| Laboratory | ZERO Lab (Zero-carbon Energy systems Research and Optimization Laboratory) |
| Salary Range | Postdoc Yr1 – $74,900 | Yr2 – $77,900 Associate Research Scholar – $85,800 |
| Start Date | On or after September 1, 2026 |
| Term | 1 year (renewable pending performance and funding); multi-year for senior ranks |
Research Area
Candidates will contribute to one or both of the following research thrusts:
- Applied Operations Research: Developing and implementing novel methods to improve the computational performance and resolution of large-scale optimization models for energy systems. This involves leveraging decomposition methods, machine learning, and multi-scalar modeling.
- Applied Energy Systems Modeling: Building and applying state-of-the-art macro-energy systems planning models to evaluate and optimize emerging low-carbon technologies. A particular emphasis will be placed on candidates familiar with enhanced geothermal energy systems.
Location
Princeton, New Jersey (In-person on campus)
Eligibility/Qualification
- Education: PhD (or expect to complete a PhD prior to employment) in a relevant field such as Mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, energy science and engineering, energy resources, or operations research.
- Experience: Prior experience in optimization methods and applied energy system modeling (particularly macro-scale).
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with algebraic modeling languages used for linear and mixed-integer programming (e.g., Julia/JuMP, Python/Pyomo, AMPL, GAMS).
- Key Traits: Strong demonstrated research ability, excellent English written and spoken communication skills, and comfort working in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment.
- Visa Constraints: This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship requiring consular processing (other visa sponsorships may be available as appropriate).
Job Description
Researchers in the ZERO Lab will work alongside Assistant Professor Jesse D. Jenkins to tackle complex challenges in energy systems planning and operations. You will develop advanced optimization models, assess the impact of emerging low-carbon technologies (like enhanced geothermal systems), and produce research insights that can tangibly influence energy transitions, climate policies, and investment decisions on a macro-scale.
How to Apply
Applicants must apply online through Princeton University’s academic hiring portal. You will need to submit:
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A Cover Letter (Must specify which of the two research program areas you see yourself contributing to, your research motivations, and why you are qualified)
- Contact information for three references
To submit your materials, visit the official Interfolio Application Page.
For inquiries about the position, you may contact jessejenkins@princeton.edu.
Last Date for Apply
December 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time
(Note: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so applying early is encouraged).
