Ph.D. / Postdoc Position i: The Laboratory of Integrated Comfort Engineering (ICE) at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is seeking a Ph.D. candidate or a Postdoc to work on personalized modeling of human energy expenditure (metabolic rate). The project aims to understand the variability in human energy expenditure and dynamically predict individuals’ metabolic rates based on extensive data collected from laboratory and field studies using wearable sensors. Collaboration with a Swiss company developing wearable sensors is anticipated.
Designation: Ph.D. candidate or Postdoc
Research Area: Modeling Human Energy Expenditure
Location: Fribourg/Freiburg, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification:
- M.S./Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields
- Background in data-driven modeling, including Machine Learning models (particularly for time series forecasting)
- Experience in statistical data analysis
- Experience with numerical modeling of 3D and transient heat transfer processes (experience with human thermophysiology modeling is a plus)
- Experience in human experimental research, including physiological measurements and surveying
- Team spirit and ability to conduct computational and experimental research
- Fluency in English, plus a comfortable level of French or German (a plus)
- Excellence and a relevant background will be the main considerations
Job Description:
- Develop personalized models of human energy expenditure (metabolic rate)
- Investigate variability in human energy expenditure and dynamic prediction of individuals’ metabolic rates
- Utilize wearable sensors to collect vital signals for laboratory and field studies
- Collaborate with a Swiss company developing wearable sensors
- Conduct data-driven modeling, including Machine Learning models for time series forecasting
- Perform statistical data analysis
- Apply numerical modeling techniques to study 3D and transient heat transfer processes
- Engage in human experimental research, including physiological measurements and surveys
- Contribute to interdisciplinary research in the Smart Living Lab, focusing on user well-being, energy efficiency, and the digital transformation of the built environment
- Collaborate with a research and development center dedicated to the future built environment
- Work in a world-class research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities
- Receive a competitive salary and employment conditions
How to Apply: To be considered for the position, please submit your application in English as a single PDF file containing the following:
- Motivation letter (1 page)
- Detailed CV highlighting experimental and computational skills, language proficiency, and a list of publications
- Contact details of 3 referees
Shortlisted candidates for a Ph.D. position will be invited to apply to one of the EPFL doctoral schools, as a parallel application process is necessary for Ph.D. eligibility at EPFL.
Last Date for Apply: August 1, 2023
For additional information and application submission, please email Prof. Dolaana Khovalyg at dolaana.khovalyg@epfl.ch. Please indicate “Position-HumanEE” in the subject of your email.
About EPFL: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is a renowned research university located in Lausanne, Switzerland. The Laboratory of Integrated Comfort Engineering (ICE) operates within the university and focuses on interdisciplinary research related to comfort, energy efficiency, and the well-being of users in the built environment.
