Research Fellow – College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Fixed-term Full-time University of Birmingham posted 2 weeks ago in Engineer Shortlist Email JobJob Description
Job Description
Position Details
College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £34,980 to £44,263 with potential progression once in post to £46,974
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to May 2026
Closing date: 14th October 2024
This role is also open as an internal secondment opportunity which would need to be agreed by your current line manager.
Background
We are seeking an ambitious Research Fellow to work on whole energy systems and hydrogen integration. You will join the Birmingham Energy Institute, a vibrant community of colleagues working on cutting edge research. This is an opportunity to drive excellent research in energy demand reduction, as part of the UKRI Hub on Hydrogen Integration for Accelerated Energy Transitions (HI-ACT). In this project, you will contribute to investigation of hydrogen, particularly with respect to integration into the wider energy system.
Role Summary
Your role will involve data-driven modelling, analysis, and optimisation of energy systems, including electricity, gas and heat sectors, with a particular focus on hydrogen. You will investigate ways in which the integration of hydrogen might support the wider energy system transition to net zero for particular use cases and considering a variety of perspectives (technical/policy/social/economic).
You will have the opportunity to work with renowned experts across various disciplines related to the UKRI-funded HI-ACT hub. You will also collaborate with different regional and national policymakers and stakeholders, including gas utilities, Tyseley Energy Park, OFGEM, and DESNZ.
The experience you gain in the role will give you awareness of the current and future needs of whole energy systems, including technical, business, and regulatory aspects.
You are expected to work closely with other research staff working within the HI-ACT hub, to communicate with the external project partners (including senior policy makers), and to collaborate on the development of future directions for this research activity. You will need to ensure delivery of outputs such as scientific journals, as well as activities which lead to impact.
Main Duties
To plan and carry out research, using appropriate methodology and techniques. This will include:
- Develop research objectives and proposals, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Analyse and interpret data and models, including contribution to new techniques and methods
- Present high quality findings in publications and conference proceedings, and to project partners
- Supervise students on research-related work
- Contribute to the research-related activities, and administration, across the School, and Birmingham Energy Institute
- Promote equality and value diversity, by acting as a role model, and by fostering an inclusive working culture
Person Specification
- A PhD (or equivalent) relevant to the research area
- A growing track record of research publications
- Experience of communicating complex information clearly
- Experience of team working, particularly to co-ordinate own work with others in the team, to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- Competency in applying and/or developing and devising data-driven modelling, analysis, and optimisation of energy systems which include hydrogen
- Ability to assess research resource requirements, and use resources effectively, to plan and manage research activity
- Strong analytical skills
- Understanding of, and ability to contribute to, broader management/administration processes
- Knowledge of how to actively ensure that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
Informal enquiries to Professor Sara Walker, email: s.walker.2@bham.ac.uk
We believe there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
