This project aims at effective up- and reskilling of heat pump installers through the development of a technology-enhanced workplace learning curriculum. The ideal candidate should possess an interest in co-creating knowledge and solutions with future installers, their companies and the project partners, such as RWTH Aachen University and the European Heat Pump Association. This endeavour requires combining scientific rigor with a participatory design approach to make conceptual and practical contributions to an educational challenge in the energy transition.
HeatcraftHP Project Summary
The specialized craft of installing, maintaining, and optimizing heat pumps demands extensive knowledge and skills to attain peak performance and guarantee the system's reliability. With a shortfall of over 500,000 skilled craftsmen in Europe's heat pump sector, the primary goal of the HeatCraftHP project is to identify the skill set crucial for proficient heat pump installation and troubleshooting. This involves 1) mapping the essential skills, 2) identifying skills gaps for current and potential future workforce groups with a specific focus on female workers, and 3) develop programs for up- and reskilling to bridge these gaps effectively. For effective up- and reskilling, we develop a comprehensive and tailored program where learning activities are integrated in daily work activities. This workplace learning curriculum will seamlessly blend succinct theoretical elements with immediate practical applications, fostering learning transfer. By integrating interactive game-based learning elements, such as a heat pump simulator, troubleshooting simulator, and system integration tool, our objective is to equip craftsmen as well as craft women with fundamental knowledge and skills essential for designing and integrating heat pumps into existing heating systems. This integration in and troubleshooting of hybrid systems is the challenge that will prevent or promote effectivity of heat pumps and their large-scale adoption of heat pumps and hence is in focus of our workplace learning curriculum with its materials and tools. Our approach not only seeks to elevate future workforce groups' existing knowledge and skills but also ensures that future heat pump installations benefit from both, enhanced reliability and superior performance. The overarching objective of the initiative is to address the escalating educational needs of craftsmen in the heat pump sector, ultimately advancing the efficiency and effectiveness of these crucial systems throughout Europe.
Your job
We are seeking a motivated PhD student to join an innovative, interdisciplinary project at the intersection of science and practice. Your primary focus will be on enhancing the skillset required for sophisticated heat pump installations and translating these insights into an effective workplace learning environment. This involves determining training needs of different profiles of future heat pump installers and then understanding as well as supporting their learning processes, formally in trainings as well as informally interwoven in the daily work practice, and.
Key responsibilities include the lead of a design-based research project to develop a workplace learning curriculum including online training courses and learning tools (e.g., web quizzes or VR simulations). This research includes conducting stakeholder interviews, applying collaborative design methods, designing early prototypes, and planning field studies, for example. You will have the opportunity to work independently on your research, while actively collaborating with other researchers within our EU-funded project.
Your role will also require you to communicate your findings effectively to both scientific and non-scientific audiences. This includes presenting at scientific conferences, publishing in academic journals, and engaging with software development communities during project meetings.
Your profileYour application should include the following documents:
Applications should be uploaded via "apply now" button. Since only three documents can be uploaded per application, please combine documents if needed.
The application deadline is 30.09.2024. The first round of interviews will be held in the week of the 14.10.2024. The starting date for the position is as soon as possible.
For additional information about this position, you can contact Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wilko Rohlfs ([email protected]), dr. Sebastian Dennerlein ([email protected]) or prof.dr. Maaike Endedijk ([email protected])
More information about the departments of Professional Learning & Technology can be found on the following website: Click here
About the organisationThe Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.
Want to know more Rohlfs, W. (Wilko)Full Professor
Rohlfs, W. (Wilko)Full Professor
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How to apply Step 1Apply. When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.
Step 2Selection. The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.
Step 31st interview. The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.
Step 42nd interview. In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.
Step 5The offer. If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer. If applicable, we will sign you up for screening.
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