Researcher / Sustainable Water Management in Karlsruhe bei Systems and Innovation Research

Fraunhofer ISI in Karlsruhe is a globally recognized center of excellence in innovation research. The different focuses of our seven Competence Centers enable us to address key issues of innovation dynamics and system transformation in an interdisciplinary manner and from a holistic perspective. The institute offers unparalleled opportunities to apply and develop new approaches in innovation research. It has close links to numerous universities and research organizations both within Germany and abroad. Our leading position in theory- and evidence-based consultation gives our employees unique access to national and international stakeholders in politics and business.

The position is in the Competence Center“Sustainability and Infrastructure Systems” and is available at the earliest opportunity.

The Competence Center conducts research on transforming socio-technical systems in the direction of sustainability.

What you will do

• Contribute to a more sustainable orientation of water management. Develop holistic and application-oriented solutions, for example for a water-conscious city and comprehensive protection of water bodies based on technical and organizational innovations.
• Analyze and model the effects of innovative water management concepts on stake-holders and with regard to various dimensions of sustainability. Take into account the relevant transformation processes and work at the intersections to other sectors, such as the energy system.
• In interdisciplinary research and demonstration projects for public and private clients, work on strategies to improve the protection of water bodies, reduce their contamination with trace substances and other pollutants and adapt to climate change. Actively integrate important stakeholders.
• The varied project work mainly takes place in the business unit “Water resources management”, but also involves cooperating with other business units in the competence center. As part of your job, you will have the opportunity to establish or further develop thematic and methodological priorities as well as to contribute and advance your own research ideas.
You will present your research in international publications, at expert and scientific-conferences and in research reports. The results of your work serve as direct input in strategic consulting for decision-makers in politics and industry.

What you bring to the table

• A university degree, preferably a PhD, in process or chemical engineering, geoecology, urban water management, industrial engineering or natural or environmental sciences.
• In-depth knowledge of water management and experience in scientific research based on a relevant PhD and/or the relevant professional experience.
• You are highly motivated to work on water management topics with regard to both technical/scientific and the related economic/social science issues.
• It is an advantage if you have expertise in environmental pollutants/trace substances, in designing, modeling or implementing water management concepts or in water management-oriented dialogue processes.
• Independence, the ability to work in a team and an interest in interdisciplinary, scientific work and publishing are required.
• Very good written and spoken German and English.

What you can expect

• Interdisciplinary nature: Employees from a wide range of disciplines work together in our project teams. This allows us to bring in different approaches, methods and ways of thinking that enable truly interdisciplinary project work.
• Working as a team: You work independently and take on responsibility in highly motivated teams. Our employees benefit from our flat hierarchy, which promotes an autonomous approach to work.
• Infrastructure: Our workplaces are equipped with the latest technology.
• Personal development: We help you to advance both your career and your personal development through extensive and targeted training and career programs.
• Compatibility of work and family life: A good work-life balance is important to our employees. Fraunhofer ISI offers flexible working hours and the opportunity for telework. To further support you, we have cooperation agreements with childcare facilities close to the institute as well as emergency childcare and homecare/eldercare offers.
• Health and fitness: We look after our employees and offer a range of sport and health-related options.
• Equal opportunities and diversity: Different experience