Postdoctoral Research Associate in Princeton, New Jersey at Princeton University

One or more postdoctoral research associate or more senior research positions are available at Princeton University in the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment. Researchers will join the Zero-carbon Energy systems Research and Optimization Laboratory (ZERO Lab) run by assistant professor Jesse D. Jenkins jointly appointed with the Andlinger Center and Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. The ZERO Lab focuses on improving and applying optimization-based macro-energy systems to evaluate and optimize low-carbon energy technologies, guide investment and research in innovative energy technologies, and generate insights to improve energy and climate policy and planning decisions

In particular, we are looking for scholars who can contribute to one of two research thrusts (or both):

1. Applied operations research: scholars will develop and implement novel methods to improve the computational performance and resolution of large-scale optimization models for energy systems planning and operations, leveraging decomposition methods, machine learning, multi-scalar modeling, and other creative techniques.
2. Applied energy systems modeling: scholars will help build and apply state-of-the-art macro-energy systems planning models to evaluate and optimize emerging low-carbon energy technologies and generate insights to improve energy and climate policy and planning decisions. A particular emphasis will be placed on candidates with familiarity with enhanced geothermal energy systems.

Applicants should specify in their cover letters which of these two program areas (or both) they see themselves contributing to, the motivations for their research, and why they are qualified to contribute to cutting-edge research in these areas. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Selected candidates may start on or after September 1, 2026.

Ideal applicants will have prior experience in optimization methods and applied energy system modeling, particularly macro-scale energy systems; familiarity with algebraic modeling languages used for linear and mixed integer programming (e.g. Julia/JuMP, Python/Pyomo, AMPL, GAMS); and comfort working in a multidisciplinary and collaborative research environment.

All candidates must have strong, demonstrated research ability, excellent English written and spoken communication skills and be very comfortable in an interdisciplinary research environment. Applicants should hold a PhD (or expect to complete a PhD prior to beginning employment at Princeton) in a relevant field, including mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, energy science and engineering, energy resources, and operations research.

The Andlinger Center is especially interested in candidates who will contribute to the excellence of the academic community and diversity of the curriculum, broadly defined.

The term of appointment is based on rank. Candidates with three or more years of postdoctoral research experience may be considered for appointment at the rank of associate research scholar. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.

These positions are not eligible for sponsorship of an H-1B visa requiring consular processing; other visa sponsorships (including H-1B visas not requiring consular processing) may be available, as appropriate.

Inquiries about the positions may be sent to jessejenkins@princeton.edu.

Application process

Applicants must apply online using Princeton University’s academic hiring portal Interfolio and submit a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references. This position is subject to the University’s background check policy.