Research Associate/Fellow in Energy in the Built Environment (fixed term)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious researcher to join our team working on a UKRI-funded project named African SCENe (Sustainable Community Energy Networks). 

This project aims to accelerate access to adequate, affordable, and reliable renewable energy within low-income suburban communities in Africa, while also enhancing cooking facilities, clean energy awareness and education. Our vision is to make clean energy accessible to drive climate action and enable children raised in off-grid and informal settlements to reach their full potential. 

We are looking for a Research Associate/Fellow who can deliver the research whilst helping to manage project delivery.  Candidates must hold an appropriate engineering or science degree level qualification and a PhD (or be about to obtain a PhD, which means the thesis must be submitted by the role’s starting date) in an appropriate field (e.g. architecture, civil engineering, energy, energy in buildings, community energy). PhD equivalence is acceptable but will need to be demonstrated through certified evidence of substantial training and experience that has qualified candidates to plan, direct and perform an independent research programme with substantial deliverables. 

Ideal candidates will also have expertise in renewable energy, energy in buildings, the impact of occupants on energy use and data acquisition and analysis. Energy modelling expertise is essential, and knowledge of energy finances is desirable. The ideal candidate will also have strong organizational skills and the ability to interact professionally with industrial partners and work in a large multidisciplinary, multicultural team. Candidates without relevant degree and experience will not be considered. The project will require overseas travel.  

The successful candidate will also possess excellent standards of written and spoken English, skills in writing academic papers, project reports and presentations, and enthusiasm, motivation and drive to embed new knowledge and to take ownership of the relevant work package within project. Relevant industry experience (including work placements) as well as experience in assessing the impact of project outputs and outcomes against Sustainable Development Goals are highly desirable but not essential attributes.