Fellowship / Post-Doc Position (ICCT Berlin): Real-World Effectiveness of Air Pollutant Reduction Technologies for Cars

The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) is an independent nonprofit organization founded to provide first-rate, unbiased research and technical and scientific analysis to environmental regulators. Our mission is to improve the environmental performance and energy efficiency of road, marine, and air transportation, in order to benefit public health and mitigate climate change.

The Berlin ICCT office is offering a fellowship / post-doc position to allow a dedicated junior researcher to focus on a specific research project for a one year term to carry out an extensive analysis on the subject. The scope of the project includes:

§  Assessing the real-world effectiveness of air pollutant reduction technologies for gasoline and diesel light-duty vehiclesand comparing the European (Euro 5/6) situation to the US and California (LEV III) market. Regulatory emission limits (Euro standards) for new vehicles and the emission levels as measured in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) decreased over the last years. Yet, recent studies suggest that real-world (on-road) emissions for some pollutants might substantially exceed the Euro emission limits. The analysis will examine the underlying reasons for this development and will assess technical solutions, taking into account cost and lead-time considerations. Focus of the analysis will be on nitrogen oxide (NO_x) and particulate matter (PM) emissions. A key aspect of the assessment will be the international perspective, comparing the situation in the EU with emission regulation in other regions around the world.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background with a foundation in engine and vehicle technology, emission and efficiency testing, knowledge of air quality, and transportation policies. A master’s degree in engineering, or related discipline is preferred. The position requires excellent quantitative, analytic, and research skills, along with strong written and verbal communication skills. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, self-directed, and creative and strategic in problem solving. Research carried out should be closely related to practice and take into account current developments at the policy level. Coordination with other research institutes is encouraged. Strong focus should be given to publication of results, with both a technical as well as general audience.

Position details

The candidate is expected to work full time for about 12 months at the downtown Berlin ICCT office. The position will be paid; salary will depend on experience.

Application

We are expecting to fill this position as soon as possible. Please send your resume, cover letter summarizing your qualifications and experiences, a writing or project sample, name and contact information of three references to berlin@theicct.org(subject: “Fellowship Berlin 2012”). Candidates will be considered on a first come, first served basis and the position will remain open until filled.