Junior researcher in pv performance and reliability

Eurac Research is seeking a curious and motivated Junior Researcher to join the Intelligent Performance and Reliability Team within the Photovoltaic Energy Systems research Group. This position focuses on applied research in photovoltaics within a dynamic and rapidly growing environment.

The selected candidate will carry out activities primarily in the area of PV performance and reliability research, contributing to both public‑funded and industrial projects. Key topics include the analysis of outdoor monitoring data, degradation assessment, defect detection, and PV performance modelling using tools such as PVLib and PVGIS. The candidate will also contribute to the development of advanced operation and maintenance practices and data‑driven decision support tools. A smaller share of the work involves hands‑on laboratory activities, with focus on developing advanced PV module characterisation techniques and support their adaptation to robotic solutions for automated processes.

The successful candidate will work closely with senior researchers while progressively taking ownership of specific activities and tools. This position is ideal for individuals eager to develop a broad skill set in photovoltaics and applied research. It is offered as a one‑year fixed‑term contract, with a clear perspective for long‑term collaboration.

• Analyse experimental and field data related to PV performance and reliability, with a focus on degradation trends, anomaly detection, and reliability assessment
• Apply and further develop PV performance models using established tools and data‑driven approaches
• Support the development of advanced operation and maintenance practices and decision support workflows
• Contribute to laboratory activities, including imaging‑based module characterisation and defect analysis
• Support industrial and public‑funded projects through modelling, testing and reporting.
• Actively contribute to daily team activities and bring ideas, curiosity, and creativity to the team’s missions.

• Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, Renewable Energy, Materials Science, Electronics, or related field.
• Strong interest in photovoltaics, applied research and automation.
• Analytical mindset and enthusiasm for data‑driven research, with openness to occasional hands‑on laboratory activities.
• Experience in data analysis (Python or similar).
• Ability to work autonomously and take initiative.
• Good communication skills and ability to work in an international team.

• Proficiency in German / Italian
• Previous first hands‑on experience in Photovoltaics

• A full‑time, 1 year position with clear extension possibilities in case of mutual satisfaction.
• Gross annual salary ranging from € 40.227,74 to € 42.305,40
• Workplace location: Via Volta 13/A - 39100 Bolzano.
• Benefits and work‑life balance: Eurac Research offers a welfare package designed to support employees’ well‑being and work‑life balance, contributing to a positive and inclusive working experience in an international research environment. The full and regularly updated list of benefits is available here.
• Rapid exposure to multiple PV domains (data analysis and modelling, system integration, lab work), enabling fast skill development and career acceleration.
• Work under the supervision of experienced senior researchers, in close collaboration with prominent Italian and international companies, as well as top research and academic institutions.
• Dedicated workspace with young, motivated colleagues in an inclusive, multicultural international team.
• Attractive living conditions in the heart of the Alps, offering a unique balance between work and quality of life.
• Competitive salary aligned with your experience, qualifications, and responsibilities.
• Eurac Research has been elected among the best workplaces in Italy. (https://www.Greatplacetowork.It/scheda_azienda/eurac/) and offers many opportunities in combining work and family activities.

• Employment classification and applicable collective agreement: II level of the Italian National Collective Labour Agreement for the Tertiary/Commerce Sector
• Gross Annual Salary range: the gross annual salary range is primarily linked to the advertised position, its requirements and expected level, and is defined according to Eurac Research’s internal remuneration framework. The candidate’s highest academic degree and any relevant professional experience documented in the CV are taken into account where applicable, but always within the salary range defined for the advertised position. The range also reflects whether the position is full‑time or part‑time.

Interested candidates should submit their application (CV, cover letter and further relevant documents) by 26.06.2026.