Graduate Assistant in Information Systems and Computer Science

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

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Presentation

The Distributed Object Programming Lab ( DOPLab ) at the University of Lausanne is opening a full-time Graduate Assistant position in Information Systems / Computer Science with a
focus on the Internet of Things (IoT) and Digital Twins (DT), in the context of Smart Grids (for Power Distribution).

Your responsibilities

Building on the foundations laid by Maxwell's equations 160 years ago, humanity is entering a new era of intensive electrification, marked by a massive shift away from fossil fuels in transportation, industry, and home heating. While we have seen an explosion in both renewable energy production and the adoption of electrical appliances, this physical progress is being hindered by a critical gap in the sector’s digital technology adoption. Despite significant advancements in battery technology and infrastructure, the lack of comprehensive digital support and the failure to develop reliable, scalable software are primary obstacles to maximizing the efficiency and flexibility of our electrical grids.

The goal of this research is precisely to help bridge this gap in the context of emerging Smart Grids, by combining the concepts of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Digital Twins (DT) into a so-called IoT-to-DT Data Pipeline. Such a pipeline typically follows a four-layer architecture, beginning with the physical layer, which collects telemetry from IoT sensors, and then transmitting it through the communication layer to synchronize the digital twin layer. Finally, the application layer leverages this virtual representation to run predictive simulations and automated control logic for the production and distribution network.

At least 50% of your time will be dedicated to conducting scientific research for the doctoral thesis. In doing so, you may need to collaborate with Swiss Distribution System Operators when working on concrete deployment scenarios. The rest will be devoted to participating in the lab's teaching and administrative activities. You will be expected to enroll in the doctoral school in information systems and will be supervised by Prof. Benoît Garbinato.

Job information

Expected start date in position : before June 2026 / to be agreed 

Contract length : 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, maximum 5 years

Activity rate : 100%

Workplace : University of Lausanne, Campus of Dorigny, Internef Building

Your qualifications

In order to complete our team, we are looking for someone with the following skills : 

• Master’s degree in computer science, information systems, or related field.
  Preferably with a specialization in software engineering, distributed systems or communication networks.


• Solid software development skills, plus knowledge of networking technologies.


• Willingness to do research in the field of software engineering, distributed systems, and Internet of Things.


• Good analytical and communication skills.


• Fluency in English. Knowledge of French and/or German is a plus.

What the position offers you

We offer a pleasant and stimulating work atmosphere in a multicultural, diverse and dynamic academic environment. Opportunities for professional training, a lot of activities and other benefits to discover.

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Contact for further information

Prof. Benoît Garbinato
E-Mail schreiben
doplab.unil.ch

Your application

Deadline : open until filled

Please, send your full application in PDF:

• your curriculum vitae (2 pages max.)


• the names of up to three references willing to write recommendation letters,


• your university transcripts (bachelor and master level),


• an electronic version of a recent research project write-up (e.g., master thesis,
  scientific publication).

Only applications through this website will be taken into account.

We thank you for your understanding.

Seeking to promote an equitable representation of men and women among its staff, the University encourages applications from women.

Additional information

UNIL is committed to:
•    equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
•    ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
•    offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
•    supporting early career researchers.

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