Research Associate in Complexity Economics

We are seeking to appoint a Research Associate in Complexity Economics to lead and support a range of research, modelling, and data analysis efforts, all geared towards applying complexity economics approaches to the green transition. This role offers a rare post-doctorate opportunity to work in INET Oxford’s world-leading complexity economics group, with a range of possible sub-projects to work on.

This role will be based primarily in the Institute for New Economic Thinking, though you will also join the School of Geography and Environment. Reporting to Dr Pete Barbrook-Johnson, Dr François Lafond and Prof J. Doyne Farmer, the post holder will become a key member of the large research team spanning multiple projects, schools, and institutes. The role is primarily focussed on delivering research for the ‘US Energy Policy in a World of Rapid Technological Advance’ project, funded by the Bezos Earth Fund. There will also be ample opportunity to contribute to the wider programme of research being conducted by the complexity and economics of sustainability groups in INET. The post holder will conduct their own research under the guidance of senior members of the team and provide support to junior members of the research team including research assistants and PhD students.

This specific project and the wider programme of work are both developing and applying innovative complexity economics and policy modelling approaches for understanding the green transition and its relation to the economy. This includes work on: (i) forecasting technology costs and deployment (Way et al. 2022); (ii) agent-based macroeconomic modelling (Pichler et al, 2022); (iii) agent-based models of the energy sector (Barbrook-Johnson et al. 2024); and (iv) agent-based models of the labour market (Berryman et al. 2023). 

We take the career development of the post holder very seriously. The role will involve completing training and career development activities. Support and guidance will be provided to aid the post holder’s career aspirations.

The successful candidate will hold a relevant PhD/DPhil, together with relevant experience. We are looking for someone with strong quantitative and/or technical skills, so relevant PhDs and experience would likely come from economics, physics, or other computer and mathematical sciences. You will possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes. Ability to manage own academic research and associated activities is essential. You will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. You will also have previous experience of contributing to high-quality high-impact publications/presentations.        

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 5 July 2024 and interviews will be held on 15 and /or 17 July 2024.

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