Unit Lead - Energy System Modelling (f/m/d)

Climate Analytics GmbH is seeking a Unit Lead for Energy System Modelling in Berlin. The role involves leading energy modelling projects, managing a team, coordinating with stakeholders, and contributing to climate mitigation analysis. Candidates should have a master's degree, extensive experience in energy system modelling, strong quantitative and programming skills, and an interest in climate policy. The position requires collaboration and representation at meetings and conferences.
About us

Climate Analytics is a global climate science and policy institute established in 2008 that delivers cutting-edge science, analysis and support to accelerate climate action and keep global warming below 1.5°C. Our international team is composed of roughly 140 staff. Half are based at our headquarters in Berlin, Germany, and the remainder work out of our five regional offices in Africa, Australia & Pacific, the Caribbean, South Asia and North America. Click here to find out more.

Your tasks

Job description

The post-holder will work in the Climate Policy Team (CPT) and lead the energy system modelling work across this team’s projects. The post-holder will also be responsible for contributing to a variety of projects relating to decarbonisation, Paris Agreement 1.5°C pathways and climate-change mitigation analysis. In addition, the post-holder will work with other experts within CPT and CA more broadly to contribute to energy transition projects of other teams across Climate Analytics. Your Responsibilities
• You oversee and guide the work on power and energy system modelling tools within the Climate Policy Team. We currently work with tools including PyPSA and LEAP, as well as methods that downscale global mitigation pathways, and are looking to further develop and expand the suite of modelling tools used.
• You provide effective line management and coaching to your direct reports.
• You support knowledge sharing within the modelling team, e.g. by ensuring that processes are documented.
• You coordinate with project partners and relevant stakeholders – both internally and externally and maintain relationships with collaborators.
• You work closely with CPT colleagues on data integration and on ensuring scientific integrity of the team’s input to our flagship projects including the Climate Action Tracker and the 1.5°C National Pathways Explorer, as well as to shorter-term projects.
• You represent Climate Analytics and project teams in meetings and conferences and disseminate project results.
• You help in the development and acquisition of new projects.

Your profile

Your profile

You will ideally have the following qualifications and skills:
• At least a master’s degree and at least 7 years of relevant work experience in energy system modelling which preferably includes a PhD. Experience in power sector modelling is a requirement, experience in other end-use sector modelling is an advantage.
• Very strong quantitative skills, including strong Python programming experience to perform energy system modelling and geospatial analyses.
• Very good knowledge of git and CI/CD.
• Experience working with mitigation pathways developed with Integrated Assessment Models is an advantage.
• Experience working with Linux and data servers is an advantage.
• Experience with managing staff.
• An interest in guiding and developing new knowledge and skills in energy modelling, mitigation pathways analysis and tracking climate mitigation action.
• An eye for detail and an interest in the political dimensions of your work.
• An ability to quickly and critically assess complex issues and processes and to communicate the results clearly to a variety of audiences.
• A sense for teamwork and ability to interact with a diverse array of people.
• Ability to work independently and work on multiple projects at the same time.
• Our working language is English, therefore excellent English writing and verbal skills are necessary. Basic German skills are welcome, but not required; other language skills are an asset.
• Willingness and ability to travel is an advantage.

We offer

Our offer
• A job with purpose. With us you will work in a team of highly engaged people and with your skills you can make a positive contribution to our work in the field of climate change.
• A job with impact. We are at the forefront of the discussion on what countries need to do to limit warming to 1.5°C, and publish a wide range of highly influential reports every year. We have strong links with key decisionmakers, including within the UNFCCC negotiations, and have been a leading voice in the push to keep 1.5°C alive.
• We are a diverse and inclusive team and welcome your application regardless of your gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, citizenship, or any other aspect that makes you unique.
• You will get to know the entire organization and be more than just a cog in the wheel. Climate Analytics has teams focused on climate science, international negotiations and on-the-ground implementation support, as well as the Climate Policy Team that you will be based in.
• We work in a positive and inspiring working atmosphere with an international team. Our Berlin office is located near Moritzplatz in the heart of the lively Kreuzberg, surrounded by a dynamic startup scene.
• We will offer your public transport ticket which allows you to travel in Berlin and across Germany.
• We also offer a company pension plan.

Application Deadline: Until filled

Starting date: As soon as possible

Location: Berlin preferred, but remote working options within Europe can be considered Terms: We are looking for a long-term collaboration. Currently we can offer a fixed term contract for 2 years, with the perspective of extension based on performance and funding.

Contact

Please apply with your CV, cover letter and a list of three references in PDF format exclusively using the application form. Please indicate in your cover letter your earliest start date and your salary expectations.

Applications by email or by post can unfortunately not be processed.