As Austria’s largest research and technology organisation for applied research, we are dedicated to making substantial contributions to solving the major challenges of our time, climate change and digitalisation. To achieve our goals, we rely on our specialized research, development, and technology competencies, which are the basis of our commitment to excellence in all areas. With our open culture of innovation and our motivated, international teams, we are working to position AIT as Austria’s leading research institution at the highest international level and to make a positive contribution to the economy and society.

At the Center for Energy , we are working on solutions for the sustainable energy system of the future, and a particular focus lies in the digitalisation of the power system.

Within the Competence Unit Power and Renewable Gas Systems , we develop innovative digital and analytical solutions to enable secure, flexible, and data-driven electricity grids . By combining digitalisation with advanced planning and operational strategies, we support the sustainable transformation of energy systems. Our focus includes cyber-physical digital twins, automated control and testing systems, advanced forecasting and energy management solutions, secure ICT architectures, grid planning, system services and scenario-based simulations.

We work closely with grid operators, energy suppliers, and other stakeholders in the power system industry to ensure that our research has real-world impact. Our work supports the integration of renewable energy, sector coupling, and new technologies such as storage, hydrogen systems, and electromobility into the power grid. To strengthen our team in Vienna , we are looking for a:

Senior Lead Researcher (f/m/d) - Digitalisation & Innovation in Power and Energy Systems

CENTER FOR ENERGY

• As part of our leadership team of the Competence Unit Power and Renewable Gas Systems , you will work closely with the Head of Competence Unit, Business Managers and other Senior Lead Researchers to define the strategic direction of your expertise area, ensuring alignment with the unit’s strategy and enhancing the economic potential of research results and solutions.
• As a scientific leader and central coordinator , you will guide interdisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality, impactful research outcomes.
• You will develop and manage a strong research portfolio , acquiring and leading national and international research and innovation projects, including Horizon Europe , the Clean Energy Transition Partnership (CETP) , and other national funding programmes.
• You will coordinate the development and application of advanced digital, simulation and analysis tools - including digital twins, forecasting systems, load flow analysis, and transient simulations - to design an innovative planning and operational concepts for future power systems , such as grid planning methodologies and control strategies .

• You will identify and integrate emerging scientific and technological trends into your research roadmap and support the alignment of team activities with these trends.
• You will mentor junior researchers, and support their personnel development .
• You will work closely with a broad stakeholder network in Austria and Europe, including grid operators, technology and industrial partners, regulatory bodies, and public institutions, serving as a central contact point.
• You will maintain and expand collaborations with academic partners to integrate scientific excellence into applied research and drive joint innovation initiatives.
• You will strengthen AIT’s scientific visibility through publications in high-impact journals, presentations at international conferences, and participation in expert groups.

Your qualifications as an Ingenious Partner:

• Completed technical studies (MSc., PhD. is considered as a plus) related to electrical engineering, computer science, software engineering, data science, or related fields
• Strong programming skills (especially in Python), and experience with simulation, modelling, data analysis, machine learning, and hardware control
• Solid understanding of energy systems, including renewable energy, electrical and gas grids, hydrogen, battery storage, and sector coupling
• Expertise in power system planning and operation, including grid simulation, control concepts, integration of renewables, and system services
• Recognised expertise in a relevant scientific field, demonstrated through publications, project leadership, or successful acquisition of research and customer projects
• Proven ability to lead and manage national and international research projects, ensuring high scientific standards and practical application
• Skilled in coordinating interdisciplinary teams, aligning contributions, and fostering collaboration across research and industry partners
• Experience in personnel development, including mentoring, recognising potential, and conducting development talks in coordination with management
• High level of initiative, commitment, and the ability to work independently while integrating knowledge across domains
• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written), with active engagement in scientific dissemination

What to expect:

The gross annual salary on a full-time basis (38,5 h / week) according to the collective agreement amounts to at least EUR 72.114,-- as a basis and is supplemented by further, variable salary components. The actual total salary package is determined individually according to your qualifications and experience. In addition, we offer company benefits, flexible working conditions, individual training and career opportunities.

At AIT diversity and inclusion are of great importance. This is why we strive to inspire women to join our teams in the field of technology. We welcome applications from women, who will be given preference in case of equal qualifications after taking into account all relevant facts and circumstances of all applications.

Please submit your application documents including your CV, cover letter