Chief Scientist – Energy and Sustainability Impact Xcelerator Lab (IX Lab)

Job Title:  Chief Scientist – Energy and Sustainability Impact Xcelerator Lab (IX Lab)
Location: IE University
Department: School of Science and Technology
Start Date: 1 September 2025

Position Overview:

IE University’s School of Science and Technology is seeking an accomplished leader to serve as the Chief Scientist for the Energy and Sustainability Impact Xcelerator Lab (IX Lab). This senior role is ideal for a forward-thinking expert with a proven track record in applying advanced technologies to address the environmental challenges faced by the energy sector, while driving sustainability innovation. The Chief Scientist will lead the lab’s initiatives to develop clean energy technologies, carbon-neutral solutions, and climate-smart strategies, working closely with industry leaders, policy makers, and regulators to drive systemic change in the global energy ecosystem.

The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in renewable energy, sustainable technologies, and environmental engineering, with a clear vision for how technology and innovation can enable the energy transition towards a low-carbon future. They will understand the critical importance of decarbonization, energy efficiency, and climate resilience, and will be able to lead collaborations that not only involve energy companies, but also government bodies, regulators, and strategic thinkers dedicated to shaping sustainable energy policies.

This role requires a deep understanding of how emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, battery storage, smart grids, carbon capture, and green hydrogen can revolutionize the way we produce, store, and consume energy, while also addressing the climate emergency and advancing global sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the Energy and Sustainability IX Lab, driving the development of technologies and strategies that promote the transition to clean energy and sustainable energy systems.
• Design and oversee education programs and executive training focused on the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition, covering topics such as renewable energy integration, sustainable energy policies, carbon-neutral technologies, and climate resilience.
• Build partnerships not only with industry sponsors but also with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and international organizations to drive policy innovation and the adoption of sustainable practices in the energy sector.
• Direct research initiatives that leverage AI, data analytics, and energy optimization technologies to improve the efficiency and sustainability of energy systems, focusing on areas such as smart grids, renewable energy storage, carbon capture, and sustainable transportation.
• Lead knowledge transfer projects and consultancy services for energy companies, utilities, and government agencies, delivering actionable insights and technological solutions that advance sustainability goals.
• Engage with policy makers to shape the regulatory environment for clean energy technologies, carbon pricing, and emissions reduction, ensuring that the lab’s research and projects align with global sustainability frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and SDGs.
• Serve as a thought leader in the Cleantech and sustainability space, representing IE University at international conferences, regulatory forums, and in high-level engagements with corporate and governmental leaders.
• Anticipate future trends in climate-smart energy solutions, helping to shape long-term strategies for both the public and private sectors to achieve net-zero emissions and improve environmental resilience.
• Oversee financial management of the lab, securing funding from energy companies, governments, and international bodies to drive impactful, scalable projects.

Required Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in Energy Systems, Environmental Engineering, Sustainability Science, or a closely related field, with significant expertise in clean energy technologies and sustainable innovation.
• Extensive experience in the energy sector or sustainability-focused industries, with a proven track record in areas such as renewable energy deployment, energy storage solutions, carbon capture, and climate mitigation.
• Expertise in AI, data analytics, and machine learning for optimizing energy efficiency, grid management, or carbon-neutral technologies.
• Experience engaging with regulators, policy makers, and strategic thinkers in the energy and environmental sectors, with a strong understanding of sustainable energy policies.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing multi-disciplinary teams and overseeing projects that address the intersection of technology, business, and sustainability.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with experience building partnerships with corporate leaders, governments, and international organizations.
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Spanish is desirable but not mandatory.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience designing and delivering executive education programs or corporate training initiatives in sustainable energy and Cleantech innovation.
• Familiarity with global sustainability frameworks such as the Paris Agreement, SDGs, and carbon pricing mechanisms.
• Strong network within the global energy industry, including connections to renewable energy companies, policy makers, regulatory agencies, and international climate organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to secure funding from government bodies, international agencies, and energy sector sponsors for sustainability projects.
• Visionary leadership with a focus on how sustainability-driven technologies such as green hydrogen, electric mobility, and advanced energy storage can reshape the energy landscape.

We offer:

• A competitive salary in line with top-ranked European academic institutions.
• State-of-the-art campus facilities and support to build your lab infrastructure.
• A professional and stimulating international working environment with English as the de facto language.
• Full access to public health services through membership of the National Insurance Scheme plus a discount plan to acquire an additional private health insurance plan.
• Diversity in an open-minded, inclusive and family-friendly environment.
• Inspiring campus life on a conveniently located, state-of-the-art unique campus in the hearts of Madrid and Segovia.

Why Join IE University?

IE University’s Energy and Sustainability Impact Xcelerator Lab is at the forefront of technology-driven climate solutions. As Chief Scientist, you will lead initiatives that not only accelerate innovation in the energy sector but also influence global energy policies and drive sustainability outcomes. You will work with corporate leaders, policy makers, and international organizations to address the climate crisis, ensuring that technological advances align with environmental goals and promote a low-carbon future. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a lasting impact on energy sustainability and climate resilience worldwide.

IE University is an internationally recognized institution originally founded as a business school. We consider ourselves the most international institution of higher education with approximately 85% of our students coming from outside Spain and typically over 120 countries represented on campus. Our Madrid postgraduate campus is situated in the financial district of this vibrant, cosmopolitan capital city of over 5 million people. In 2021 we opened the IE Tower, standing as one of the 5 towers in the business district of Madrid with a 6000-student capacity.

The School of Science and Technology prepares students with industry relevant skills in the context of STEM and related educational programs. The school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Applied Mathematics and Data analytics.

Application Instructions:

Create your dossier at Interfolio and apply at: http://apply.interfolio.com/157989

Applicants should submit the following materials:

• A cover letter outlining their vision for the future of energy sustainability and how they would lead the Energy IX Lab.
• A detailed CV, including a list of publications, research grants, industry collaborations, and professional accomplishments.
• A statement (maximum 2 pages) detailing leadership experience in sustainable energy and climate technology, including examples of successful innovation in the sector.
• Contact information for three professional references, ideally from both academic and industry backgrounds.

IE University is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.