Postdoctoral Researcher – Photovoltaic System Performance

About the role

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to investigate the performance of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels installed on post‑mining sites in semi‑arid environments. The work will focus on how micro‑climatic variations driven by local vegetation affect energy yield, with the aim of optimizing PV operation under climatic stress.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor PV panels for temperature, efficiency, and dust accumulation using environmental sensors and thermal cameras (UAV/IR).
• Conduct comparative analyses of PV configurations with and without vegetation.
• Study dust deposition impacts on energy performance.
• Analyze meteorological, soil, and energy production data.
• Contribute to modelling PV performance under local conditions.
• Prepare scientific and technical deliverables, including reports and publications.
• Document experimental results and collaborate closely with project partners.

Required profile

• PhD in solar energy, electrical engineering, or environmental sciences.
• Proficiency with PV systems, instrumentation, and performance measurement.
• Experience processing environmental data using Python, R, or MATLAB.
• Interest in integrated energy–environment–biodiversity approaches.
• Strong teamwork, problem‑solving, and communication skills in English and French.

Required skills

• Python
• R
• MATLAB
• UAV data analysis
• Thermography
• PV system instrumentation
• Performance measurement