Research Fellow

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to May 2026

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 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

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