Postdoctoral Associate: Integrating political economy insights into energy modeling

D-26-SPI-00009 | Research | Princeton School of Public and International Affairs

The Peng group in the School of Public and International Affairs and the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment is seeking applications for 1-2 postdoctoral or more senior research associate positions. Dr. Wei Peng's group (www.weipengenergy.com) focuses on modeling institutional and human dimensions of energy transition to identify realistic and robust decarbonization strategies. The appointment will be through the Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment at Princeton's School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA).

The researcher(s) will be expected to contribute to projects that aim to incorporate political economy insights into energy modeling. The researcher(s) will join an interdisciplinary team of political scientists and modelers to improve the political and policy realism in energy models. Specifically, the researcher(s) will be expected to synthesize the insights from the political economy literature (e.g., policy choice and design, impacts of political and trade uncertainties on investments, etc.), develop stylized quantitative representations of political and institutional processes, and then incorporate them into (or couple with) global and subnational energy models to study core policy questions related to decarbonization.

We welcome applications from individuals with a strong interest in the intersection of modeling and political economy. Suitable candidates may include:
1.Energy modelers with expertise in integrated assessment modeling, energy system modeling, or agent-based modeling, who are eager to incorporate socio-political dynamics into their models; or
2.Computational social scientists with experience in empirical research and/or theoretical modeling, who are motivated to incorporate their methods into energy modeling.

All applicants must demonstrate strong research capabilities, be comfortable working in an interdisciplinary environment, possess excellent written and spoken English skills, and hold a PhD in a relevant discipline.

The term of appointment is based on rank. The ideal start date is in early 2026, with the latest possible start no later than Summer 2026. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments. Salary and full employee benefits are offered in accordance with Princeton University guidelines.

Applicants must submit a CV, contact information for three references, and a cover letter describing their areas of expertise and interest. References may be contacted for the candidates who make the shortlist for this position. Applicants must apply online via.: https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/40221.

The review of applications will start on October 15, 2025, and will continue until positions are filled. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. Inquiries about the positions may be sent to weipeng@princeton.edu.

The Princeton School of Public and International Affairs is committed to building a culturally diverse intellectual community with varying viewpoints who share Princeton University's dedication to excellence and service.

Expected Salary Range: $65,000 - $75,000

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Requisition No: D-26-SPI-00009

*Required information is denoted with an asterisk.

How to Apply

The form below must be completed to submit your application for this position.

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able to save or return to edit a partial application. Only complete applications will be accepted for consideration and the application form must be completed in its entirety before it can be submitted.

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For more information send an email to kswan@princeton.edu.

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